Location
Canzo is the last municipality of Alta Brianza before the Valassina, at the northern end of Lake Segrino: it is the capital of the Comunità Montana del Triangolo Lariano.
History
Its origins are very ancient, with the present settlement dating to Roman times. The territory passed from the Martesana district to the monastery of Sant’Ambrogio, then to the Chapter of Monza Cathedral (11th century) and to the monastery of Civate. The hermit Miro Paredi was born here in 1336. Besieged by the Spanish in 1523, with heavy depopulation, it passed through various feudal families until its annexation to the province of Como in 1786.
What to see
- The Basilica of Santo Stefano, known as the “Gesa granda”, an 18th-century provostal church.
- The hermitage of San Miro, 17th century, with a small convent and terraced gardens.
- Villa Meda (17th century), later an SS barracks during the Second World War, today a mixed public-private venue and library.
- Palazzo Tentorio, a municipal property restored in 1999.
- The Abbey of San Pietro al Monte, a Romanesque complex open every day except Monday, with free guided tours on Sundays.
What to do and excursions
The Corni di Canzo — Occidentale, Centrale and Orientale — are the symbol of the village: the Corno Orientale is accessible to everyone, while the other two require more experience (E-EE difficulty) — details in the Climbing the Corni di Canzo itinerary. At the foot of the village, the Lake Segrino loop (5 km, nearly flat) is an easy hike suitable for families, in one of the area’s three protected natural areas along with the Sasso Malascarpa Reserve and a bird protection zone. Other trails start from the hamlet of Gajum, such as the geological trail of Val Ravella, or climb to Monte Cornizzolo.
Getting there
Canzo-Asso station, on the Trenord R16 line, is a few minutes’ walk from the centre; by car you arrive along the SP41 of the Vallassina.
Festivities
26 December, Saint Stephen, patron saint of Canzo.