The 17th Century on Lake Como: Treasures of the Baroque

A journey through miraculous sanctuaries, spectacular fresco cycles, and panoramic balconies overlooking the lake.

The 17th century left traces of extraordinary beauty throughout the Alto Lario. This itinerary reveals an era of deep devotion and vibrant artistic energy, taking you to places where Baroque art blends seamlessly with the majesty of the surrounding nature.

The Itinerary: Between Miracles and Fresco Masters

Dongo: The Sanctuary of Madonna delle Lacrime

The journey begins in Dongo with a visit to the Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Lacrime. Built at the turn of the 17th century following a miraculous event, the sanctuary welcomes visitors into an atmosphere of deep spirituality. Inside, you can admire an evocative wooden sculpture group that echoes the dramatic, realistic intensity of the famous Lombard Sacri Monti.

Peglio: The Masterpiece of the Fiammenghini

Ascending toward Peglio, you will find one of the most beautiful scenic viewpoints on the entire lake. Here stands the Church of Sant’Eusebio, considered one of the most significant 17th-century artistic hubs in the entire Diocese of Como.

• The Art: The church is a triumph of color thanks to the renowned workshop of the Fiammenghini brothers, who created a grand cycle of frescoes between 1614 and 1625.
• The View: The church’s position offers a privileged perspective stretching from the Alto Lario all the way to the peaks of Valtellina.

Novate Mezzola: The Splendor of the Holy Trinity

In the afternoon, the route leaves the shores of Lake Como for a short excursion toward Valchiavenna at Novate Mezzola. Here we visit the Church of the Holy Trinity (Santissima Trinità), widely recognized as the finest example of Baroque art in the Province of Sondrio. Inside, the mastery of the Recchi school shines through canvases of rare beauty, making this church an essential stop for art lovers.

Route Details

• Duration: Full day.
• Locations: Dongo, Peglio, Novate Mezzola.
• Ideal for: Baroque painting enthusiasts, landscape photographers, and slow tourism travelers.

💡 Tips for Your Guests:

Strategic Location: Peglio is located directly above Gravedona, just a few minutes’ drive from Vercana. It is the ideal starting point for pairing art with a short scenic drive.

Fun Fact: Don’t forget to look up at the church vaults—Baroque artists aimed to “open up the heavens” with spectacular painted perspective views!