Piazza Grande

Piazza Grande is a central plaza in Locarno featuring elegant buildings with arcades and stone facades that blend Swiss and Italian architectural traditions. The surrounding structures frame the open space with covered porticos and ornamental details typical of regional construction methods.

The square originated in medieval times as a marketplace and served for centuries as the center of community life in Locarno. Its role as a public gathering place has continued through the present day.

The Locarno Film Festival transforms the square into an outdoor cinema each August, with screenings accommodating over 8,000 spectators under the night sky.

The square is centrally located and easily accessible by multiple bus lines. Restaurants, cafes, and shops surround the plaza within the historical buildings.

Located at coordinates 46.169587, 8.795781, this Class B Swiss cultural property sits near Lake Maggiore, combining urban design with mountain landscape views.

Location: Locarno

Part of: list of cultural properties in Locarno

Address: Piazza Grande, 6600 Locarno

GPS coordinates: 46.16959,8.79578

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:25