Undoubtedly, the symbol of the town of Brunate, the Volta Lighthouse stands majestically at 29 meters high, offering a beautiful panorama of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. Built in 1927, over the years, it has attracted the interest of hundreds of tourists who specifically take the funicular to visit it. Let’s discover how to reach this historic monument dedicated to Alessandro Volta.
History of the Volta Lighthouse
The history of the Volta Lighthouse begins in the distant 1927, the year of the centenary of the death of Alessandro Volta. To celebrate this important occasion, a lighthouse was indeed built in the locality of San Maurizio di Brunate, more precisely on the top of Monte Tre Croci. The brainchild of engineer Gabriele Giussani, the Volta Lighthouse was then officially inaugurated on September 8, 1927, following the intervention of Costanzo Ciano, then Minister of Communications.
The structure of the building consists of 143 steps that wind along a spiral line and allow access to the circular balconies. While the first is located just above the entrance door, the second is located outside the lantern: these are two incredibly panoramic points that allow you to gaze along the entire western arc of the Alpine chain, even catching sight of Monte Rosa. Noteworthy is the presence, in the central vault, of a bust depicting Alessandro Volta, a gift from the postal telegraphers.
We are talking about a true monument to the history of Como which, in addition to representing the tribute to one of the most important physicists in the world, is also renowned for its architectural beauty and its light inspired by the colors of the Italian flag: from sunset to dawn, in fact, the Volta Lighthouse alternately shines with green, white, and red light.
Visiting the Brunate Lighthouse: What You Need to Know
The Volta Lighthouse is located in Brunate, more precisely in Via Giacomo Scalini, in the well-known locality of San Maurizio. Visits are possible on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm until March 30, 2024. On March 31 and April 1, the opening hours are extended until 6:30 pm. Here are the access costs:
- 16 years and older: 3 euros;
- 11 to 15 years old: 2 euros;
- Groups of 15 people or more: 2 euros.
The visit is free for the following categories of people:
- Children under 11 years old;
- People with disabilities and their companions;
- Teachers with school groups and guides.
It is important to specify that only cash payments are accepted.
How to Reach the Volta Lighthouse in Brunate
The easiest way to reach the Volta Lighthouse is by taking the funicular from Como. Also in Como, you can inquire for further information at the info point located between Via Albertolli and Via Gobetti, open