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The foundation of Como on the lake Como shores (Novum Comum) by the Romans dates back to 59 b. C., even if Etruscans and Gallics had inhabited this zone since ancient times, as well. After Roman Empire fall Como suffers the Goths, Long bards und Franks' invasion. In 1127 during the conflict against Milan it is defeated and destroyed. Como joins forces with Federico Barbarossa and is rebuilt, and then it participates to the destruction of Milan in 1162. Between 1300 and 1400 Como goes under the rule of the Visconti and of the Sforza. In 1500 it suffers a strong Spanish domination, which makes it poor both economically and demographically. In 1700 with the Austrians Como resumes the merchant activity and becomes the most important silk centre of XX century. Today history, art and culture live together with industry and trade in Como. The natural scenery of the extraordinary colours of the Lake frames the city with a particular beauty. Among the churches to be visited are: the Dome with a late Gothic style and the Broletto, San Fedele, Sant’Abbondio and San Carpoforo, all Romanesque churches. The mausoleum dedicated to Alessandro Volta and the War memorial (Sant'Elia) enrich the promenade. In the whole wallet city there are historical buildings with precious colonnaded courtyards. Among the most recent architectures Como is rich of art pieces by Architect Giuseppe Terragni. The promenade by the Lake to Villa Olmo, to the central Cavour Square, to the tourist harbours and finally to Villa Geno with its spectacular fountain, faces the first Lake basin.
VILLAS AND GARDENS OF LAKE COMO
The Lake Como is very famous all over the world for its villas that set its shores and for their gardens that, especially in spring, fill its shores with wonderful colours.
Leaving Como by boat we suggest you to spend a day coasting along the Lake shores and enjoying the villas, starting from Villa Olmo, Villa d’Este in Cernobbio, La Pliniana in Blevio, and Villa Monastero in Varenna, the most famous ones.
A stopover in Bellagio for the lunch and a little bit shopping or, if you prefer, a rest on the only island existing on the Lake, Isola Comacina, where you can really relive all Lake history.
CASINOS
To spend a night in a different way it is possible to choose one of the many casinos situated near the Lake Como. In Campione d’Italia the famous casino is waiting for you with its gaming tables and slot machines. Campione, even if it is situated in Switzerland, belongs to Italy. It is easily reachable from the border in half an hour.
Another casino is situated in Lugano, Swiss city on the lake having the same name, forty minutes far from the border. The third casino, smaller and with a nine numbers roulette, is in Mendrisio, only fifteen minutes far from the customs of Chiasso.
SHOPPING
Shopping lovers have the possibility to walk in the historical centre of Como, where the paved streets are enriched through splendid shop windows with the handcrafted works of Como industry, from the silk in its various shapes to the furniture in Cantù etc. Elegant bars, confectioneries and ice cream shops will help you spending a few hours at the tables of the most beautiful city squares like Piazza Cavour, Piazza Volta and Piazza San Fedele. For the never satisfied ones to reach Milan or Lugano, by car or by train, takes only one hour.
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