Lake Como, Glacial lake in Lombardy, Italy
Description
Lake Como is a glacial lake in Lombardy that divides into three branches and runs north to south between steep mountain slopes. The water shimmers green or blue depending on the light and reaches down to 410 meters (1345 feet) at its deepest point, while the shores are lined with small harbors, villages and wooded slopes.
History
Travelers and merchants used the lake basin as a route between the Mediterranean and the Alpine passes to the north in ancient times. During the 18th and 19th centuries new estates appeared along the shores for wealthy families attracted by the mild climate.
Culture
The Italian name Lario appears in old texts and refers to the ancient settlement of Comum, which later became Como. Today, villas with gardens mark the shore, connected by waterways and shaping the character of the region.
Practical
Boats run between the towns along the shore and allow visitors to reach several points in a single day. The best views often come from the water, where the shoreline landscape and surrounding mountains are easy to see.
Did you know?
Warm air currents from the south meet cool mountain air and create sudden winds that sailors and fishermen have known for centuries. In some shore areas lemon and olive trees grow that are normally found further south.
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