The renowned local white-grey marble – hard, compact, and quarried since Roman times – was widely used to build monuments and churches, including the Cathedral of Como
Lake Como offers many truly breathtaking views, such as the one from the top of the western shore of the lake, between Musso and Dongo. Reaching this natural balcony over the water is relatively easy: simply drive up the paved road from Musso and walk the final stretch on foot. This forms a loop trail that begins in Musso and descends back to Dongo. Winding among houses and terraced landscapes, you arrive at the Church of San Bernardo, recognizible by its distinctive red “hat” on top of the bell tower.
The church of San Bernando
Perched at an altitude of 1,105 metres, facing the Sasso di Musso, the church was consecrated in 1856, though its construction dates back at least to the 18th century. Inside, the statue of Saint Bernard is preserved, donated in 1892 by the farmers of Musso and Catasco. From this small church, visitors can enjoy an unparalleled panorama of the lake, Monte Legnone, and the Albano valley. Located along the famous Via dei Monti Lariani trail, it can only be reached on foot or by mountain bike. Traditionally, every summer the feast of Saint Bernard is celebrated on the Sunday following Saint Roch’s Day, with the participation of many worshippers.
The loop trail
The descent winds through the Albano Valley, on the opposite side, in a wild landscape of steep meadows and small valleys. From the church, follow the signs for Trail 4 of the Via dei Monti Lariani, and after a long stretch, you reach the settlement of Piazze (800 m), where a dirt road leads down to the bridge over the Albano river. From here, the path climbs to Catasco, where you join the paved road descending to Dongo. Crossing the Ponte della Regina, you arrive beside the famous ironworks. Keeping to the right, you pass through the village, go beyond the Church of S. Maria in Martinico, and reach the lakeside in Dongo. Turn right onto the Statale Regina, cross it, and continue toward Musso until you reach the lakeside. Along the way, pay a visit to the Church of Sant’Eufemia, accessible only on foot. Perched in a panoramic position between the Giardino del Merlo and the ancient marble quarries, the church was once part of the Medicean Fortress complex, destroyed in 1532. The current building dates back to 1622 and features a single-nave layout with a square presbytery. The church is dedicated to Saint Euphemia, a woman originally from Sueglio (Val Varrone). After her death, in recognition of her good deeds, the farmers of Musso and Dongo built a church in her honour, with its main door facing Musso. Legend has it that the people of Dongo would wall up the door at night and open another one facing their own village, but by morning, they would always find the door back in its original position.
