Lugano is a city in Switzerland on the lake, surrounded by mountains. What else do you need for a great vacation? And if you add a little Italian character and cultural events, then you can immediately buy tours to Switzerland. But first, let's find out more about him.
Picturesque Lugano
Lugano is a city in Switzerland where the population primarily speaks Italian. It is located in the canton of Ticino. For its special character and climatic conditions, Lugano is often compared with Rio de Janeiro. The climate is temperate, so the weather in Lugano is usually comfortable for tourists. In winter it is not too cold, but in summer there is almost no heat.
The mountains of Monte San Salvatore and Monte Bre, up to 1000 meters high, surround Lugano from two sides. And Lake Lugano opens from its coast a view of Mount Monte Generoso, which is located on the opposite bank.
Many travelers buy tours to Switzerland to enjoy the peaceful lakeside scenery of Lugano. The lake is considered one of the highest alpine lakes. It is located 270 meters above sea level. Dozens of cruises go on romantic trips around Lake Lugansk.
History of the city
In the Middle Ages, the main occupation in the city was trade. In the 15th century, Lugano became an arena for the confrontation of the political movements of the Guelphs and the Ghibellines, after which it passed into control of Milan.
In the XVI century, the city passes to the Swiss Union and remains in its composition until 1798. During the French Revolution, it is part of the Helvetic Republic and becomes its main city.
The republic lasted only 5 years. After its collapse, Lugano passes into the control of the canton of Ticino, of which it is still a part.
Lugano Attractions: Park and Museums
On the coast of the lake lies Civico Park with flower beds, trees and a villa of Chiani. The neat park is interesting not only for its beautiful avenues and flora; on its territory is the Palazzo Civico - a magnificent architectural monument.
The old villa of Chiani used to belong to the city businessmen, the brothers Giacomo and Filippo. At the beginning of the 20th century, it became available to the city authorities. The city museum was opened in the villa, combining the expositions of the museum of history and fine arts. In addition, the villa has a conservatory with camellias, rhododendrons and other flowers.
Villa Malpensata, once owned by a wealthy patrician, is now the Museum of Fine Arts. The Museum of Cultures has collected various ethnographic materials from Asia, America, Oceania, as well as the collections of Emma Nodari, Serge Brignoni. The Cantonal Museum of Art presents permanent collections of paintings from the 19th-20th centuries, as well as exhibitions dedicated to contemporary art.
A must-have program for many trips includes the Chocolate Museum, which is located at the local chocolate factory. The museum holds lectures on the production of chocolate and workshops on its preparation.
The streets of the city
Lugano is a city in Switzerland with a history spanning many centuries. The streets of the Old Town have retained the charm of the old time, many houses have remained since the Middle Ages. The proximity to Italy played a role, the streets and architecture resemble the Italian style.
The Cathedral of San Lorenzo is the oldest building, dates from the 9th century and combines the features of several styles. Initially, it was made in the Gothic style, but after the reconstruction, renaissance features were added. Later, the Torricelli brothers decorated the temple with baroque frescoes.
Not far from the cathedral is Villa Castagnola with a collection of works by famous artists. In the Cathedral of Lugano, preserved samples of ancient frescoes and statues. The Romanesque church of St. Mary is worthy of attention, thanks to the ancient look and frescoes inside, depicting biblical subjects.
You should definitely see the architectural monuments created by Ticino Mario Botta and the shopping street Via Nasa. It also houses the rear city administration, decorated with allegorical sculptures. They denote Religion, Strength, Consent and Freedom.
Neighborhood
Nearby with Lugano you can find a lot of interesting things. The city of Belinoza with a medieval Milan castle is only half an hour from Lugano. It is best to come here on Saturday when the local market opens.
Just three kilometers away is the city of Melida and the Switzerland Miniature Park. More than 100 models represent the famous buildings of the country. Château de Spiglia and the Federal Parliament, the Cathedral of Lausanne, the Berne Tower, the existing funicular and miniature railway - all of Switzerland in one place.
In the mountains is the village of Karon, where only 600 people live. The village has a mountain botanical garden with unique plants. In a fairly small area there are five churches that should not be ignored.
The fishing villages of Gandria and Morkote, located nearby, will welcome you with hospitality. And fish restaurants will prepare delicious dishes from freshly caught fish. You can get to the villages along the road, but it is more pleasant to do it by boat.
If you go north, then about two kilometers from the city you will find yourself in Campione. This is an Italian enclave that belongs to Lombardy, although it is located on Swiss territory. Two currencies go here, and control of various spheres of life is exercised either by Italy or Switzerland.
Conclusion
Lugano is a city in Switzerland, which in appearance and atmosphere is more like the coast of Italy. Medieval Italian architecture, a picturesque lake and mountains around make this city unique.