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Angera, Lake Maggiore
Red tiled roofs in this pretty Roman town
The lovely town of Angera dates back to Roman times when it was an important stopping point for boats transferring their wares to the road, and vice-versa. Sitting high above the town is the Rocca Borromeo, a fortress dating back to the 11th century.
Located in a gulf on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, the characterful town of Angera was an important spot, controlling the trade traffic in the southern half of the lake. That is the reason why the Borromeo family, influential merchants and bankers in the Duchy of Milan, decided to turn its fortress into a luxury residence in the 14th century.
From its beautiful lakeside promenade you can enjoy views of Lake Maggiore and of the uninhabited Isolino Partegora, a small islet that emerges from the blue waters covered with lush green vegetation.
History & Culture in [locality]
The area of Angera was inhabited in prehistoric times, and artefacts from hunters-gatherers have been found in the cave of Tana del Lupo, on the road that leads to Rocca Borromeo. During Roman times it was an important lakeside port on a trading route for wood and stone via the Ticino river. The current layout of the town centre reflects the Roman town division into districts.
With the arrival of Visigoths in the year 411, Angera was destroyed along with Milan. In the 11th century, it was under the domain of the archbishop of Milan, who built the first fortress on the rock. The building was expanded by the Visconti in the 13th century, and finally became the property of the Borromeo family in 1449, who also bought the town for 12,800 lire. Angera was under Spanish rule for two centuries, and under Austrian government until 1861.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
The main monument in Angera is Rocca Borromeo, an 11th-century fortress turned into luxury residence by the Borromeo family in the 14th century. A vital point of defense against the Swiss, you can now visit the castle which boasts wonderful 13th-century frescoes.
The local museum has artefacts from the Roman town, while on the lakeside promenade there is an uncompleted 17th-century sanctuary, Madonna della Riva.
Events in [locality]
There are many small festivals and events that take place in this town, mainly in the summer. Perhaps the most popular is a music festival celebrated in collaboration with other villages on the eastern part of Lake Maggiore called "Il Lago Cromatico" when concerts are organised along the lake's shores, together with gastronomic events, cycling routes, guided tours and much more.
Things to do in [locality]
Apart from visiting the castle, a stroll along the lakeside promenade is a must when in Angera. Under the shade of the trees, you will be able to discover the town's dominating position on Lake Maggiore. If you go in the summer, you might catch the local antiques' market, on the first and second Sunday of the month.
