Comacina Island in Tremezzina’s area
Comacina Island is the only island on Lake Como. It is located within the municipality of Tremezzina, opposite the western shoreline inlet of the Como branch, between Argegno and the Lavedo peninsula.
Comacina Island is a unique microcosm, set in a landscape of extraordinary beauty and rich in history.
Once upon a time...The island has been inhabited since Roman times and played a leading role during the early Middle Ages, thanks to its strategic position and fortifications. It is no coincidence that the island is still known as "Castello", as it was once organised as a fortified citadel. In the twelfth century, during the wars between Como and Milan, it was completely razed to the ground. Nevertheless, the island preserves important remnants of its past, including the remains of the eleventh-century Basilica of Sant’Eufemia and other medieval churches, which testify to its importance as a religious centre. |
What to seeHighlights of Comacina Island include: the Antiquarium Museum, the Archaeological Park with the Basilica of Santa Eufemia, the Churches of Santa Maria del Portico and San Pietro in Castello, the Church of San Giovanni Battista, and the Artists' Houses from the 1940s. Also not to be missed is a nature walk around the island. |
The island todayThe island is an archaeological and natural park open from May to October, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Admission is charged, and tickets purchased at the Antiquarium contribute to the conservation of the site. Comacina island is accessible by ferry with Navigazione Lago di Como or via private water taxi. |
Zoca dell’OliThe gulf surrounding Comacina Island is known as Zoca dell’Oli, a dialectal term meaning "oil basin". This name derives from the fact that, at certain times of the year, the microclimate in this part of the lake resembles a Mediterranean climate, allowing for the production of small quantities of exceptionally high-quality olive oil. |
