Location
Asso lies in the Triangolo Lariano, in a basin at the confluence of the upper Lambro valleys (Valassina).
History
The earliest settlements date back around 8,000 years. From the 11th century Asso held a strategic military role, with fortifications now almost entirely gone; it became an autonomous community in 1183. Struck by several plague epidemics from the 14th century on, it passed under various feudal lords (Visconti, Dal Verme, Sfondrati) and hosted an Office of the Inquisition. It was the capital of the 4th canton of the Lecco district under French rule; from the late 19th century it absorbed Scarenna and Pagnano.
What to see
- Church of San Giovanni Battista: a 17th-century collegiate church, with wooden artworks and a bell tower in the same style as that of the Sanctuary of Madonna di Sommaguggio.
- Church of Santo Crocifisso: 18th century, built on a Greek-cross plan.
- Church of Pagnano: with a large image of the Madonna crushing the head of the dragon.
- Historic pharmacy: founded in 1922, the oldest in the province of Como, offering guided visits.
What to do
From Asso you can reach the Corni di Canzo, Monte Megna, Monte Palanzone, Dosso Mattone and Croce Pizzallo. The Cascata della Vallategna waterfall marks the boundary between Brianza and Valassina, between the municipalities of Asso and Canzo.
Getting there
Asso is reached by car along the SP41 of the Vallassina; intercity buses from Como, Erba and Bellagio stop at the hamlet of Scarenna.
Festivities
9 February — Saint Apollonia, patron saint of Asso.
Practical information
Asso is one of 31 municipalities of the Comunità Montana del Triangolo Lariano (260 km², about 75,000 residents), whose main town is Canzo.