Luxury living on Lake Como

Synonymous with luxury and sophistication, the area boasts a rich history of attracting aristocrats, authors and poets. Owning a home here places you in elite company, amidst exquisite villas and grand estates. Many properties offer spectacular views of the lake and mountains, inspiring generations of art and literature. Afterall, it was the Lake’s beauty that inspired William Henry Fox Talbot to further develop a technical way of capturing its enchanting landscapes and transferring them to paper, thereby becoming the inventor of photography..

Lake Como is dotted with historic villas, many dating back to the Renaissance. These architectural marvels often feature intricate frescoes, grand ballrooms, and luxurious gardens that have been meticulously maintained over the centuries. Living in one of these historic villas means residing in a piece of history, with each property telling its own unique story. Many of them have been restored to include modern luxuries while preserving their historical essence.

They are living museums, bearing witness to the grandeur and splendor of Lake Como's bygone eras.

The area around Como was inhabited by Celtic tribes before the Roman conquest in the 1st century BC. Under Roman rule, Como flourished as a strategic trading centre due to its location on the important road connecting Italy to Gaul (modern-day France). The Romans established Como as a prosperous town known for its production of silk. The Museo della Seta showcases artifacts that illustrate Como's rich textile production tradition, including machinery and tools used in the processes that defined the city's golden age of silk.

Como became an important Roman municipality known as Novum Comum, contributing to the empire’s cultural and economic life with its theatres, temples, and public baths. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Como experienced periods of turmoil and conquest by various invaders, eventually becoming part of the Holy Roman Empire.

Throughout the medieval period, Como continued to thrive as a centre of trade and craftsmanship, attracting wealthy families who built magnificent palaces and churches, many of which still stand today as testament to Como's affluent past.

The Como Cathedral, or Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, is a stunning example of Gothic-Renaissance architecture located in the heart of Como, Italy. Construction began in 1396 and was completed nearly four centuries later in 1770. Its intricate façade features finely detailed sculptures and rose windows, while the interior boasts grand columns, beautiful frescoes, and exquisite tapestries. The cathedral houses an impressive collection of artwork, including pieces by renowned Renaissance artists such as Bernardino Luini, who is said to have worked with Leonardo himself. The Como Cathedral stands as a testament to the city's rich history and artistic heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of medieval and Renaissance ecclesiastical design.

Lake Como has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions held throughout the year. Villa Olmo in Como hosts significant art exhibitions and cultural events, while the Teatro Sociale offers a range of performances, including opera, ballet, and theatre. The region is also known for its music festivals, which attract renowned artists and musicians from around the world, performing in eye-wateringly beautiful venues.

Experiencing Lake Como from the water offers unparalleled luxury and tranquility. While surrounded by the steep mountainous ranges, step aboard the renowned Riva Aquarama, also known as the Ferrari of the boat world.. As you cruise, you'll pass elegant villas, stopping at charming lakeside villages like Bellagio and Varenna. Enjoy gourmet meals prepared by a private chef, paired with fine Italian wines, as you relax on deck, taking in the breathtaking views. Whether it's a serene sail at sunset or a lively day of water sports, exploring Lake Como from the water provides an exclusive, unforgettable perspective on this enchanting destination.

Of the many faces found on this magical lake, there is beauty in them all.