City walls of Como

The city walls of Como are a stone fortification system that surrounds three sides of the historic center. Large sections of the original structure remain intact and can be explored today.

The first fortifications date from the 1st century BC when Roman troops controlled the area. Later, the walls were reinforced and rebuilt during medieval times and again under the Sforza family rule.

The walls define the edge of Como's old town and show how residents once thought about protecting themselves from outside threats. Walking along them today, you can sense the importance this fortification had for the city's independence and pride.

You can walk along the preserved sections using dedicated pathways that offer views of the old town and surrounding landscape. Wear comfortable shoes since the paths can be uneven, and plan your visit for clear weather when the views are best.

The walls clearly show different construction phases, as Roman stones, medieval bricks, and reinforcements from the Sforza era sit side by side. This layering lets visitors spot and understand the different techniques and see how the fortification evolved over the centuries.