Morcote, Municipality and protected townscape on Lake Lugano, canton of Ticino, Switzerland
Morcote is a municipality in the canton of Ticino, on the shore of Lake Lugano, and is listed among Switzerland's protected townscapes of national importance. Its narrow alleys, old stone houses with arcaded facades, and the hillside church of Santa Maria del Sasso are the main features that define its layout.
Morcote has been inhabited since Roman times and grew as a lakeside settlement over the centuries. The Torre del Capitano, built in the 14th century, served as a defensive structure and still stands on the waterfront today.
Many houses in Morcote have arcades that line the narrow alleys, giving the village its particular look. Residents use these covered spaces in daily life, sitting outside or chatting with neighbors.
Morcote is easy to explore on foot since most points of interest are within walking distance of each other. Parking can be hard to find during busy periods, so arriving by bus from Lugano or by ferry across the lake is a practical option.
The Casa Paleari, built in 1483, was decorated in 1661 with detailed stucco work by artist Abbondio Paleari, making its facade stand out among the other village buildings. Near the church stairs, a swing called 'Swing The World' offers an unusual spot to look out over the lake and the church at the same time.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
