In each topic of the “Architectural Tourism” series, we will take you on a distinctive tour to an exceptional architectural destination in one part of the world. We’ll give you an in-depth look at the local architecture and unique designs that characterize these places, highlighting the artistic and cultural details that make each architectural destination unique.
We will share with you exclusive information and wonderful pictures of the places we will visit, and we will show you historical and cultural details that will add to your experience as an architectural tourist. You’ll also find directions on how to get to these destinations and nearby places you can visit during your trip.
We look forward to joining you on these exciting architectural journeys and providing inspiration to all architecture and design lovers. Please join us on your journey of discovery and enjoy learning about the most prominent architectural landmarks around the world with a unique architectural perspective.
The city of Como, with its unique blend of Italian and Swiss cultures, offers diverse architectural and cultural elements that can be explored in an architectural tourist’s article. Here are the five most important elements to highlight:
Geographical location and surrounding nature: Como’s lakeside location offers stunning views and greatly influences the architectural design and layout of the city. Emphasis can be placed on how the architecture integrates with the surrounding charming nature.
Town Square: Exploring the design and significance of Como’s main town square, with an emphasis on architectural details, historical monuments, and how this square reflects the culture and social life of the town.
The distinctive church clad in veined white marble: the architectural details of this church, including the use of marble and the religious and cultural influences that influenced its design.
Dual cultural influences (Italian and Swiss): How these influences manifest in architecture, food, and traditions. The architectural elements that distinguish Como from other Italian or Swiss cities can be highlighted.
Everyday Life and Markets: Exploring how markets and daily life on the streets of Como reflect local culture and its influence on architecture and urban planning.
The city of Como, located in northern Italy, is distinguished by its unique location on the southwestern shores of Lake Como, surrounded by stunning natural scenery. The lake is famous for its steep beaches and the surrounding area, which is full of trees and natural beauty. It is distinguished by its unique location with picturesque mountains on both sides, providing visitors with charming views. Como is surrounded by a lakeside promenade, connected to Piazza Cavour, which leads to the famous Piazza del Duomo.
Piazza del Duomo, the heart of Como, is a historical center around which the city has developed over time. The square is located just a few steps from Lake Como and includes several monuments of great interest, such as the “Broletto”, the seat of the city council dating back to the 12th century and today used as the headquarters of the city archive and for temporary art exhibitions.
Architecture
Como is considered an important center for Rashad architecture, an architectural movement that emphasizes functionality and simplicity. For example, we find “Casa del Fascio”, designed by Giuseppe Terragni in 1932, and it is considered a masterpiece of Rashad architecture. Also, the city has the “Rashadieh Quarter” where buildings have been developed using new materials and innovative building models that focus on functionality.
Daily life and markets
Como’s markets are a mixture of tradition and modernity. The city is famous for its two historic markets and the antique market in Piazza San Fedele. Local markets are also held regularly, with exhibitions of craft and food products. These markets reflect local culture and its influence on architecture and urban planning.
Foods and traditions
Como is distinguished by its rich food traditions, which include:
Bread: Como is famous for its “Pan de Comm” bread, which has a crispy crust and airy core.
Polenta: Polenta is a staple in local cuisine, and is served in a variety of ways, such as polenta enchia flavored with mountain cheese and butter.
Lake fish: such as “Missolten”, which is dried and salted shad, as well as fried perch rice.
Cheeses: Includes cincarlene, which is marinated and aged ricotta, casorita del pespino, cimoda, and taleggio.
Desserts: include miascia, a traditional cake, pan mataloch, a sweet bread, and paradelle, a typical dessert of the Tremezzina region.
These elements demonstrate a blend of two cultures.
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