Let’s start an in-depth exploration of the magical Tremezzina, that - as you’ll for sure already know - is made of 4 villages: Tremezzo, Mezzegra, Lenno, Ossuccio. We’re talking about the sunniest area of the central lake: yes, that prosperous region with an outstanding concentration of olive groves, period villas with astounding architectures, ancient little hamlets and breathtaking natural sceneries.

Today we’ll focus on Mezzegra, with its three iconic districts: Bonzanigo (the most ancient and charming), Giulino (famous for the historical facts that right here took place), and Azzano (the romantic side of Mezzegra, directly lakefront).

The most striking feature of this village is its super lucky location: incredibly sunny and panoramic, with a premium views on the central lake.

Via Pola in particular is one of the most sought-after locations in this area, thanks to its peaceful vibe and the unforgettable views you can enjoy here.

Discover our listings in Mezzegra!

Another enviable asset of Mezzegra is its noble soul, clearly visible in Bonzanigo hamlet: this is the most significant nucleus from an artistic perspective, where lanes, underpasses and old houses are the guardians of several wall frescoes and chapels.

In Bonzanigo you’ll find plenty of historical dwellings that the rich local families built over the years with the income of their trades in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Amburgo, and Brema.

To this purpose we can’t help mentioning Brentano family, that was right from Mezzegra: a family of merchants who emigrated in Northern Europe during the Spanish occupation of Lombardy. Then they came back and with the income of their trades they enriched Mezzegra with the stunning palaces we can still see today in all their beauty, like Palazzo Brentano and Palazzo Rosati.

But there’s more to say about Bonzanigo, that will certainly excite all lovers of esoterism. Walking about 40 minutes up from the village you’ll find Monte degli Stampi, a green area rich in fossils. These rocks, which due to their shape and size resemble the contours of an equine hoof, have taken the name of "pè de cavai", literally “horse hooves”, and have given rise to various legends: the first tells that Noah's Ark landed in this place. The second legend refers to a nearby place called "Praa de la taca" (literally "Lawn of the footprint"), a hill where it’s said the witches from Lezzeno used to meet for their mysterious rituals.

Talking about the district of Giulino, everyone knows the historical facts related to Mussolini execution on April 28, 1945.

In front of the gate of Villa Belmonte in Giulino (Via 24 Maggio), in a narrow and sheltered street, you can see a black cross marking the precise spot where Benito Mussolini was killed (together with his lover Claretta Petacci) by partisans.

Mussolini was trying to escape into Switzerland when he was captured in Dongo and then escorted to Mezzegra. In the hamlet of Bonzanigo lived a trusted couple - friends of Captain Neri (Chief of the 52nd Garibaldi Brigade): Giovanni and Lia De Maria, to whom the partisans asked hospitality for the two prisoners.

We end this little tour of Mezzegra with its last hamlet, Azzano, that is directly on the lake shore. The narrow streets of the historic center lead to the beautiful square, called Piazza Magnolia due to the huge tree in its center: it’s more than 250 years old! The famous local songwriter Davide Van De Sfroos lives right in Azzano: the charming magnolia has been source of inspiration for his album Akuaduulza.

Final tip: we suggest you to relax on the large terrace of Sant’Abbondio Church, among the beautiful plane trees: beyond the balustrade, on the right, you can see Isola Comacina; Bellagio is just on your left.

What a paradise!

© Lakeside | Pic in the round box on top: © Valerio Carletto

Looking for a property in Mezzegra or other locations of Lake Como?

Get in touch!

Mezzegra (Tremezzina): A Mix of Noble Palaces, Mysterious Meadows, And Idyllic Panoramic Spots [Infographic]