Como
is a fabulously picturesque town sitting on the lake
(Lago di Como) at the foot of the Alps. I love
strolling through the old town and, in fact, there are
some nice churches here. The main square is the Piazza
Cavour (I try to book a hotel in or around this
area). Piazza Cavour is right by the lake. The duomo,
which was built in the 14th century (late)
and was remodeled in the 15th and 18th
centuries has an ornate façade. This is
right old town (the old town has remains of the old
town walls — very evident). On either side of the
door at the center are the statues of Pliny the Elder
and Pliny the Younger (native sons). Inside there
are tapestries, paintings and other lovely ornamentation.
Just to the side of the duomo is the Broletto
(town hall) with it’s striped upper façade.
The Basilica di San Fedele (12th century)
is just down the street a short distance and is worth
a visit. Do look for the tower at the top of Via
Cantu called Porta Vittoria. The Basilica
di Sant’Abbondio (1093) with its twin towers
has some 14th century frescoes depicting
the life of Christ. It’s a bit austere, but do
visit the cloisters and if you have the energy you can
climb the hill behind them and head to the top of the
Baradello Tower (lake views). Do try to see the
Basilica di San Corpoforo which is Romanesque
in style. The Museo Civico has local history.
There are lovely villas on the shores of the lake and
many are open for visits either inside, outside in the
gardens or both. The Villa Olmo is one of those.
If you drive along the western side of the lake, you
can stop in at the Tempio Voltiano,
which is a temple with marble columns and mosaic floors.
Inside is Alessandra Volta’s (and you wondered
where we get the term volt) battery apparatus. Monday,
Thursday and Saturday are Market days in Como.