Location
Albavilla lies in the lower Triangolo Lariano, near Erba, about 8 km east of Como.
History
For over a thousand years the area was dominated by the castle of Carcano, the site of the clash between Barbarossa and Milanese troops on 9 August 1160 (no trace of it remains today). The municipality was formed in 1928 from the union of Vill’Albese and Carcano.
What to see
- Crotti: 34 vaulted rural buildings with rock floors that keep a constant temperature — the “Festa dei crotti” is dedicated to them. More recent sources count over 30 within the municipal territory.
- Historic villas, scattered throughout the town (the source of the name “Albavilla”).
- Parish church of San Vittore Martire and the small Romanesque churches of Santi Cosma e Damiano (Corogna) and San Bartolomeo (Molena), with 15th-century frescoes.
- Sanctuary of Madonna di Loreto (Molena): medieval origin, Romanesque style, 17th-century frescoes.
- Church of San Dionigi (Carcano).
What to do
From Albavilla you can drive to the Alpe del Vicerè, a starting point for hikes towards Monte Bolettone (1,317 m, with a large cross placed there in 1964), the Buco del Piombo and the Cosia valley. The town also borders Lake Alserio, with cycling and pedestrian paths along its shores.
Getting there
From Milan, exit the SS36 at Erba and continue towards Albavilla. Travellers by train can get off at Erba (Trenord R18 line) and complete the journey by bus; the C140 bus line also connects Como (Magistri Cumacini) directly with Piazza Roma, in the heart of the town.
Festivities
8 May — Saint Victor, patron saint of Albavilla.
When to go
The most recent population estimate is around 6,300 residents. The best time to visit the crotti and hike towards Bolettone is between late spring and early autumn.