Como was under the influence of the Duchy of Milan beginning in the 14th century, and also through the French invasion and Spanish domination, which characterized the centuries to come.
Around 1700, European nobles and intellectuals gave birth to a phenomenon known as Grand Tour, a trip around Europe that was meant to increase their knowledge.
Como and the villas on the lake were some of their favorite stops, thus giving rise to local tourism.
In 1714, the territory was taken by the Austrians under the Kingdom of Lombardy-Venetia, but in 1859, the arrival of Giuseppe Garibaldi freed the city from the Austrians, and Como soon became part of the newly formed Kingdom of Italy.