Location
Pigra sits on a plateau above Argegno, at 881 metres altitude.
History
Allied with Como during the ten-year war (1117-1128), in medieval times it hosted a watchtower for controlling the passes. Passed under the Visconti, Rusconi and Medici (with the Medeghino), it saw its feudal privileges abolished under Maria Theresa of Austria. In 1848 the parish priest don Cavalli was exiled for having participated in the uprising against the Austrians.
What to see
- The Argegno-Pigra cable car, the steepest in Italy, connecting the lake to the village in minutes.
- The Balcone di Pigra, a panoramic viewpoint reachable with a short walk from the centre.
- The Oratory of San Rocco, from the 16th century.
- The village itself, with stone lanes, fountains and washing places.
What to do and excursions
From Pigra you can explore the Val d’Intelvi, descend towards Colonno passing through the hamlet of Corniga, or reach the Alpe Boffalora by military road, towards the peak and trenches of Monte di Tremezzo. Other excursions lead to Monte Galbiga and Alpe di Colonno.
Getting there
By cable car from Argegno (Friday-Sunday and holidays, 9-17, departures every 15 minutes); the lower station is reached by buses C110 (Argegno-Stazione Funivia stop) or C120 (Piazza Testi-Imbarcadero).
Festivities
16 August, Saint Rock, patron saint of Pigra.