Location
Gravedona ed Uniti stands on the western side of the upper lake, on the alluvial plain of the Liro torrent.
History
Inhabited since prehistoric times, the name comes from “grava” (gravelly area). The fortified village was demolished during factional struggles in the 14th century. It was a possession of the Visconti (with its own statutes), then of Gian Giacomo de’ Medici, and finally of the Como-born cardinal Tolomeo Gallio, count of the Tre Pievi. Since 2011 the municipality has taken its current name, uniting Gravedona, Consiglio di Rumo and Germasino.
What to see
- Church of Santa Maria del Tiglio: 12th-century Romanesque, in black and white stone with a distinctive bell tower, a national monument; medieval frescoes, a 16th-century wooden crucifix and a baptistery.
- Church of San Vincenzo and the church of Santi Gusmeo e Matteo, frescoed by il Fiammenghino.
- Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie: a convent with a cloister, today home to the library.
- Palazzo Gallio: 16th century, square plan with four corner towers linked by loggias, a garden with fountains and camellias; venue for cultural events and home to the Comunità Montana.
- Belvedere di Prà Castello: views over the upper lake.
What to do
Excursions in the Valle del Livo and the Liro valley or in the Parco Valle Albano; a lakefront walk towards Domaso.
Getting there
Gravedona is served by the C10 Como–Colico bus line and by a stop of the Navigazione Lago di Como; by car, take the SS340 Regina.
Festivities
11 February — Our Lady of Lourdes, patron saint of Gravedona.
