Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Varenna is a picturesque village of very ancient origins. It was called "Insula Nova", appellative due to the landing of the inhabitants of the Isola Comacina. In 1169, the Comaschi, heartened by the fall of Milan, by Federico I° Barbarossa, landed on the Isola Comacina, destroying fortress, houses and churches, forcing the inhabitants to abandon it. The memory of this tragic event is renewed from year to year through the historical recalling that occurs with the symbolic fire of the Isola Comacina during the Festival of San Giovanni (of Tremezzina) and concludes with the landing of refugees in Varenna on the first saturday of July.
The fugitives, on rowing boats and with their clothes bloody because, landing on the Riva Grande, greeted by religious and by the citizens of Varenna, that rifocillano them, them comfort and host them in the Community varennese. The reconstruction is followed by a firework display that immerses Varenna and lake in a game of lights and colors. The village, for its regularity and spaces divided into insulae, roman would be: the square was originally the seat of the hole, while the church of San Giorgio, a perfect example of Lombard architecture of the XIV century, would arise on the foundations of a Roman temple.
Always in the square a brief visit to the church of San Giovanni, the most ancient of Varenna and one of the first to rise along the Lario that became Christian. Varenna offers its visitors a unique views and unforgettable moments. Strolling along the "walkway of Lovers" you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama directly on the lake and the village is full of cafes, restaurants and shops displaying the products of the Made in Italy. Relaxation is assured by walking along the terraced gardens and sloping down toward the lake Villa Cipressi, or crossing the almost 2 km of gardens that extend around Villa Monastero, in which it is possible to find, thanks to the mild climate of the lake, botanical species from all over the world.
From March to October, moreover, do not miss the opportunity to admire a natural phenomenon is unique in its genre. To Fiumelatte, at about 1 km distance from Varenna in the direction of Lecco, slides in fact an intermittent stream between the shorter of Italy: the Fiumelatte, along 250 m., owes its name to the white sparkling waters. And for those who love walking, also accessible through the paved road, we recommend the climb through the two paths that, starting from the village, reach the Castle of Vezio.
Panoramic point of ancient origins built on the mountain of Varenna, which today houses a training center of nocturnal and diurnal birds of prey. History and charm can be also discovered through the Geenway of the Patriarchs and the Sentiero del Viandante. Varenna, finally, hosting events for every age and every taste, from rock concerts to concerts of classical music, theaters, gastronomic walks and workshops for children.
