Four villages with a long history

Faggeto Lario took its present form in 1928, when Molina, Lemna and Palanzo were merged into a single municipality. Riva di Faggeto was added later. However, the history of the area goes back much further. Archaeological finds, including ancient tombs, indicate that the area was already inhabited during Roman times.

In the Middle Ages, Molina, Lemna and Palanzo were connected by the Strada Regia, the historic route that ran along the mountainside from Brunate to Bellagio. Fishing, farming and wine production were important sources of income for centuries. The stone houses, narrow streets and old churches in the hillside villages still reflect this history today.

Churches and sights

Each hamlet has its own character and historic buildings. In Molina, you’ll find the Chiesa di Sant’Antonio Abate. The church was largely rebuilt in the 18th century, but its bell tower still retains Romanesque elements.

In Lemna, you’ll find the Chiesa di San Giorgio, a church believed to have Romanesque origins that was extensively modified between the late 16th and mid 17th centuries.

Palanzo perhaps has the strongest historical character of the four hamlets. Here, you can still see the remains of a medieval defensive tower and visit the Chiesa dell’Addolorata, better known as the Chiesa del Soldo. According to a local legend, the church was built after the villagers initially refused to give up their farmland and vineyards for its construction.

The historic wine press of Palanzo

One particularly interesting sight is the enormous Torchio di Palanzo, dating back to 1572. This historic wine press was made from a single massive tree trunk and measures around twelve metres in length. Exceptionally well preserved, it is a reminder of the important role wine production once played on the terraced slopes above Lake Como.

Hiking in the Triangolo Lariano

Faggeto Lario is also an excellent starting point for hiking in the mountains. Trails from the different hamlets lead towards Monte Bolettone, Pizzo dell’Asino and Monte Palanzone, the highest of the three at 1,436 metres. Along the way, you’ll walk through forests and mountain meadows, with beautiful views over Lake Como.

Near the summit of Monte Palanzone, you’ll also find the Grotta di Guglielmo, a well known karst cave in the Triangolo Lariano.

Swimming in Riva di Faggeto

For lakeside life, head to Riva di Faggeto. This small hamlet sits directly on Lake Como and offers several spots where you can swim and relax by the water. The peaceful atmosphere provides a pleasant contrast to the historic hillside villages a few hundred metres above.

Why visit Faggeto Lario?

Faggeto Lario is an interesting destination for those who want to discover more than just the well known villages along the lake. You can explore historic churches and hillside villages, the remarkable wine press of Palanzo and the ancient Strada Regia. At the same time, you can swim in Lake Como or head into the mountains of the Triangolo Lariano directly from the villages.