ISOLA COMACINA
Isola Comacina is the only island on Lake Como.
Located in the waters off Tremezzina, just a few kilometers north of Argegno, this small piece of land is almost uninhabited and welcomes a lot of curious visitors in the period between March and October.
Isola Comacina overlooks the Zoca de l’oli, a bay that takes its name from the local production of olives, which is favored by the particularly mild climate that characterizes the area.
Discover more about Isola Comacina!
Map of Isola Comacina
History of Isola Comacina
The history of Isola Comacina is quite peculiar. In the 6th century, when the Lombards came from beyond the Alps, the island was still a remaining Roman stronghold under Francio.
Most of the areas surrounding Lake Como, including Milan, were already controlled by the Lombards, but Francio was able to withstand the siege for several months, after which he had to surrender and flee toward Ravenna.
After a long series of events, in 1118 the Isola Comacina took Milan’s side during a ten-year war against Como, which eventually led to Milan’s victory. In 1169, the arrival of Frederick Barbarossa, the Holy Roman Emperor, presented an opportunity of revenge for Como, which could punish the surrounding rebel lands.
The island was returned to the Italian government in the following year, and in turn was given to the Brera Academy of Milan, which still owns it today. In 1939, the rationalist architect Pietro Lingeri built three houses, with the aim of turning the island into a colony for artists.
The Isola Comacina now hosts the Church of San Giovanni, a collection of archaeological sites (especially ruins of churches), and the three artist houses, in addition to a popular inn that was built in 1964 (unfortunately, this is currently closed).
How to get to Isola Comacina
Naturally, you can only get to Isola Comacina by boat. The public boat service allow you to reach the island from anywhere on Lake Como.
Just take a look at the timetables on the official website of the company to find the boat landing that is most convenient for you.
But if you are already in Tremezzina, you can take the taxi boat from the locality of Ossuccio. The taxi boat starts near the beautiful Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, whose bell tower is clearly visible from the road. You can buy your ticket directly on board.
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This Post Has 6 Comments
It looks beautiful! We’ve been to Lago Di como but never this island. Can you take the ferry and swim there?
Hi Deborah, yes it’s very beautiful! You can take the public ferry or even a private boat from Sala Comacina that will take you there. And yes, you can also swim 🙂 Have fun!
Anyone know how long it takes to ride the ferry from Isola Comacina to Como?
Hello Justin, please check timetables on navigazionelaghi.it!
Is the restaurant on this island still open?
Hello Sarah, the restaurant is currently closed, I have just updated the post.