Discovering The Sacred Mount Of Ossuccio, On Lake Como
If you love picturesque Italian villages, Lake Como will not disappoint. Along its shores are charming towns such as Cernobbio, Lenno, Bellagio and Laglio. Many of these can be reached by taking the Lake Greenway, a route accessible to all that is just over 11 kilometers long and takes about two and a half hours to complete. Among the villages traversed is Ossuccio, where there is a place that mixes scenic beauty, art and spirituality. It is the Sacro Monte of Ossuccio (the Sacred Mount of Ossuccio).
What is the Sacred Mount of Ossuccio?
The Sacred Mount of Ossuccio is one of the nine Italian Sacri Monti (sacred mounts) designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These mountains, created during the Counter-Reformation period, served as places of pilgrimage and devotion for Catholics seeking spiritual solace and redemption.
What sets the Sacred Mount of Ossuccio apart is its stunning collection of fourteen chapels, each a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and religious art. As visitors traverse the winding path that ascends the mount, they are greeted by these chapels, each depicting scenes from the life of Jesus Christ.
The journey begins with the Chapel of the Agony in the Garden, where Jesus prays before his arrest, and progresses through the various stages of his Passion, Crucifixion, and Resurrection. Each chapel tells a story, narrating the pivotal moments of Christ’s life and inviting pilgrims to reflect deeply on their significance.
Beyond its religious significance, the Sacred Mount of Ossuccio offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of Lake Como and its surrounding landscape. As pilgrims ascend the mount, they are greeted by panoramic vistas of the shimmering lake and lush greenery, enhancing the sense of tranquility and spiritual contemplation.
Reaching the promontory at an altitude of 419 meters, the view that opens up over the picturesque Comacina Island is breathtaking.
How to Reach the Sacred Mount of Ossuccio
For those seeking a meaningful and enriching experience, a visit to the Sacred Mount of Ossuccio is highly recommended. Whether you are a devout pilgrim, an art enthusiast, or simply a traveler in search of spiritual serenity, this hidden sanctuary promises a journey of discovery and reflection unlike any other.
As you walk in the footsteps of pilgrims past, amidst the timeless beauty of Lake Como, allow yourself to be captivated by the profound spirituality and artistic splendor of the Sacred Mount of Ossuccio. It is a place where the sacred and the sublime converge, inviting all who visit to embark on a transcendent journey of the soul.
To reach Ossuccio, you have several options. It depends on your starting point.
For example, you can reach it by car, driving along the SS340 road to Ossuccio and then following the signs to the mountain. Alternatively, you can take a local bus. But if you want to have a truly unforgettable experience, we recommend taking advantage of the boat services across the lake: you will admire the panorama of the mountains in all their majesty.
What to See in the Town of Ossuccio
Away from the hustle and bustle of larger tourist destinations, the town of Ossuccio offers visitors a chance to experience authentic Italian culture and hospitality. You can immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere of this idyllic lakeside town by getting lost in the charming cobblestone streets or dining at family-run trattorias.
With its ancient churches, historic buildings, and archaeological sites, the town is steeped in history and cultural heritage. You can explore landmarks such as the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena and the ruins on Comacina Island, gaining insight into the town’s fascinating past.
Among the many architectural marvels in Ossuccio is Villa del Balbianello, a magnificent villa renowned for its exquisite architecture and stunning gardens. A visit to this architectural gem offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Italy’s aristocratic past, with beautifully preserved interiors and meticulously landscaped grounds. You can also find the same architectural beauty and atmosphere at Villa Balbiano, one of our rental properties on Lake Como.
Villa Balbiano in Ossuccio
Located in Ossuccio, Villa Balbiano is a stunning historical palace dating back to the 16th century. Initially owned by prominent figures of the clergy, it became a hub for high society gatherings in the late 18th century, hosting extravagant parties.
This remarkable estate comprises the main palace, featuring six luxurious suites, along with the left wing housing four bedrooms, and an adjacent villino with four additional bedrooms.
Spanning 6,460 square meters, the main palace spreads onto three floors, each recently renovated. The ground floor boasts a magnificent lobby, complemented by a dining room, library, winter garden, three elegant salons, a kitchen and a covered terrace with a fireplace for al fresco dining. Marble floors and exquisite frescoes grace each room.
On the first floor we find a studio, master suite, and guest suite, each exuding luxury and sophistication. The journey continues to four opulent bedrooms on the upper levels, each boasting en suite marble bathrooms and furnished with fine antiques.
For those seeking to fully immerse themselves in the allure of the lake, the option to rent a boat and moor it at the private dock adds an extra touch of indulgence to the experience.
