GRAVEDONA
Gravedona ed Uniti is a small town that came out of the merger, in 2011, of Gravedona, Consiglio di Rumo, and Germasino.
Located on the north-western banks of Lake Como, Gravedona ed Uniti is the perfect destination for all who seek peacefulness and tranquility.
In fact, the nearest popular tourist destination is Menaggio, about 35 minutes away by bus. Other towns you should definitely visit if you are in this area are the quieter Domaso and Colico, 5 and 25 minutes away by bus, respectively.
While walking in the streets of Gravedona, you can’t help but notice how its buildings, especially churches, evoke the charm of its past.
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Gravedona, you won’t need to look further. Read this guide and get the most out of your stay!
If you can, visit Gravedona in the off-season!
Lake Como is a true corner of Italian paradise that attracts tourists from all over the world, especially during the high season (late May to late September). My advice is, if you can, to visit Lake Como during the low season (for example, in April or October) to have a more relaxing and authentic travel experience.
What are you looking for in Gravedona?
Sights & things to do
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Your trip to Gravedona can start from a visit to the Church of Santa Maria del Tiglio.
The church was built in the 12th century on a pre-existing Christian baptistery, and is one of the finest examples of late Romanesque art around Lake Como. The church is characterized by the elegance of its decorations as well as for the walls, which are made with two stones of different colors so that the outer walls show bicolor horizontal bands.
The interior of Santa Maria del Tiglio houses a wooden crucifix, which dates back around the 12th century and is the only one left in the Province of Como.
The splendor of the building is also due to the landscape in which it is located, thanks to its remarkable position overlooking Lake Como’s shore.
Continuing north, you will get to Viale Stampa. Here begins the long, beautiful lake promenade of Gravedona. In the small square next to the harbor you will find the tourist office, where you can ask for information about activities, attractions and hotels in Gravedona.
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Piazza Prà Castello
After taking a nice walk and having a coffee on Gravedona’s charming and peaceful lakefront, head to the center of town: Pra’ Castello, a tiny square carved out of the ancient castle walls (now largely demolished) that once enclosed many of Gravedona’s oldest houses.
Piazza Pra’ Castello is the true center of the town of Gravedona, a place from which there are breathtaking views of Lake Como and the towns on the upper lake.
This was the meeting place for the Parish Church Council, which, according to the tradition, was summoned by the bell of the nearby church.
Unfortunately, the old castle of Gravedona was largely demolished, in order to make way for the construction of Palazzo Gallio.
Alessandro Volta’s house
Another interesting thing to see in the town center of Gravedona is the house of Alessandro Volta, where the inventor of the electrical battery spent much of his youth and also his honeymoon. It is located in Via Volta 2, which is very close to Piazza Prà Castello.
The outside of the house looks quite spartan, with exposed brick walls and a commemorative plaque.
Currently the house does not appear to be open to the public, but if you are interested please contact the Gravedona tourist infopoint.
Want to walk in the footsteps of the famous scientist? Follow this Volta tour in the city of Como to discover other places related to the Alessandro Volta’s life!
Now you can take Via Regina, the road that played a major role in the development of the territory, and get to Palazzo Gallio.
Palazzo Gallio was built in 1586 by bishop Tolomeo Gallio, as a demonstration of power over the feud Tre Pievi, which ruled the area of Gravedona, Sorico, and Dongo.
The building consists of four towers on each side and a magnificent lodge overlooking the water. The surrounding park is rich in gardens, fountains, and pools.
Palazzo Gallio hosts numerous cultural events, such as concerts, performances, art exhibitions and workshops. It is also a renowned location for events and weddings on Lake Como.
Palazzo Gallio is open daily Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and the visit is free. Contact the Touring Club Italiano (that manages the building) if you need more information.
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Church of Santi Gusmeo and Matteo
Your tour of Gravedona is not complete without a visit to the Church of Santi Gusmeo and Matteo, in addition to the nearby Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
The Church of Santi Gusmeo and Matteo was built in 1533 on the site of an earlier late Romanesque church, by reversing the original orientation.
Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie
The Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie was completed in the same period, and is full of frescoes from past centuries by local artists. From its front lawn, you can enjoy an amazing view of Gravedona and Lake Como.
The church is still used today as a place of worship, while the convent premises house the municipal library.
Public boat tours
❗Looking for information about public boat service? Read my guide to boats and ferries on Lake Como!
Gravedona’s main pier is located in Viale Umberto I. From here, other fascinating towns on the lake such as Colico, Varenna, and Bellagio can be reached by boat.
Beaches in Gravedona
If you are in Gravedona and want to relax on a beach, you can get to Serenella beach (located in Viale Scuri), which is partly lawn and partly natural sand.
Discover the best beaches in Lake Como!
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