Parco Spina Verde di Como, Regional park in Province of Como, Italy
The Spina Verde Regional Park is a nature reserve that covers forested hills northwest of Como, extending toward the Swiss border across several municipalities. The park administration center at Villa Imbonati provides visitors with information, maps, and arrangements for exploring marked trails and historical sites within the protected area.
The park contains Baradello Castle, a medieval fortress built in 1158 by Emperor Frederick Barbarossa on the site of earlier Byzantine structures from the 6th century. This layering of defenses shows how this hilltop location held military importance across different periods.
Archaeological remains scattered throughout the park show evidence of the Golasecca civilization, the first people to inhabit the Como area. These ancient settlements near Pianvalle and Respaù Hill reflect thousands of years of continuous human presence in this region.
The area is best explored on foot using the marked trails, especially during warmer months when the paths are dry and easier to walk. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and obtain a map from the administration center since the forested landscape can be confusing to navigate without guidance.
The Seveso River originates within the park boundaries, starting a long journey that eventually flows toward Milan. This hidden water source represents one of the park's most overlooked features despite its role in the regional hydrography.
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