Lecco
Lecco is the most southerly commune on the eastern branch of the lake. With a population of nearly fifty thousand, it’s second only to Como in size.
But despite the fact that the East side of the lake has a railway line and expressway it is not as popular as the West side and therefore Lecco is not as well known to visitors as Como.
Its medieval origins are reflected in the way it’s organised into different zones – industrial, agricultural, fishing, military and trading. The major industrial activity has been iron mining.
The distinctive features of Lecco include the Ponte Azzone Visconti, Palazzo Belgioioso and the basilica of San Nicolo. The Viscontea Tower, the only surviving part of the town’s original fortifications, now houses a museum of the Risorgimento.
The charming Piazza XX Settembre makes a striking contrast with the dramatic rocky background.
Lecco was the home of the 19th century writer Manzoni, whose novel ‘I Promessi Sposi’ was set in the area. His name is remembered in the family’s Villa Manzoni, where he spent his childhood and youth, and in a monument.
Go to map of Lake Como towns and villages
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