Argegno

Thanks to its favourable location and its historic and cultural wealth, the town of Argegno is a very popular touristic destination. The town is located on the western shore of Lake Como, only about 15 miles from the city of Como. Argegno was built at the doorway of the Intelvi Valley, which connects Lake Como and Lake Lugano in Switzerland. Its name dates back to the Roman era and it was attributed to the town in honor of consul Publio Cesio Archigene. For a very long time Argegno was an integral part of Lake Como’s defense system, managing to protect its residents from the outside world invasions.
The picturesque historic center with its medieval stone houses is at the center of the two banks separated by the Telo river. There are only two bridges connecting the two sides of the town, one of which still made of ancient stone with arches to sixth acute, the other more contemporary. The newest part of town is scattered on the surrounding hills, with a magnificent panoramic view of the lake.
Argegno proudly stands close to one of the most beautiful farmed valleys of Lake Como’s area – the Valle d’Intelvi. This gorgeous valley provides endless options for leisure time activities: walking and hiking paths with various levels of difficulty, mountain bikes trails, horseback riding, swimming, golf, mountain climbing for adults and children, tennis, paraglider. But there is more: the Valle d’Intelvi also abounds with art and culture. The works of art masters are collected in temples and ancient palazzos, surprising and enchanting any kind of visitor.
Another important and touristic attraction of Argegno is the Argegno-Pigra cablecar. Designed and built in the Badoni laboratories, this cablecar covers a 648-meterdifference in altitude in just 4 minutes, reaching the most beautiful terrace at the foot of the Alps. The two 12-people cabins alternate on steep 70 to 95% slopes, opening to incomparable views over the lake and the surrounding mountains. The cablecar is not just a tourist attraction, but also the most convenient way to connect Pigra with the lake and then take a bus to Como or Bellagio.
Pigra is at 811 meters above sea level. Here, in total peacefulness, visitors can enjoy the panorama and visit the local sites. One of them is the small church of San Rocco, dating back to 16th century. Behind its façade are 17th century frescoes, an unusual altar and several marble statues. Up until the nineties, at the belvedere of Pigra stood a beautiful 16th century tower, later demolished to make room for a villa, currently the location of some union offices. Pigra is also the starting point for many mountain itineraries.
Back to Argegno…in addition to the medieval center on the river with its hold buildings, a nice stone bridge and the old factory, the town is also home to the lovely church of S. Trinità. Built in the 20th century on the base of the original church from 1600 (whose only remain is a painting portraying Christ’s birth), the new church is quite impressing with its unique façade with several statues and the central rose window. Also quite interesting are the altar, the baptismal font and the organ.
On the road to Schignano, known for its carnival, is the 18th century Tempio di Sant’Anna, with its stuccos and frescoes dating back to its original construction and later. In addition, visitors will also be able to admire the superb art of hand carved wooden furniture. The road that takes from Schignano to Monte Generoso – 1700 meters above sea level – offers a vast panorama from the Alps to the Pianura Padana.
An alternative itinerary goes through small towns such as Castiglione, Pigra e San Fedele d’Intelvi. Additional excursions include Laino, Ponna and Pellio Intelvi or, also, a visit to Lake Lugano.

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