The Lombard governor talks about his region and the strategic role its lakes
play in its future: from driver of tourism to powerful identity values.
What role do you see lakes playing in the area’s collective symbolic heritage? What is it that makes them such an integral part of the area’s identity and such a magnet for visitors? Its lakes are a fundamentally important part of the Lombardy region’s identity. The term ‘laghee’ is frequently used to describe those whose identities are bound up with the lakes and economies linked to fishing and tourism have grown up around them. Tourism has really come into its own in recent years – all the lakes, both the bigger ones such as Garda, Como and Maggiore and the smaller ones whose attractions and cycle tracks draw in a great many tourists – and the numbers speak volumes.
As the Milan-Cortina 2026 Olympics come closer, what actions and strategies is the region adopting to promote the lakes in integrated transport, economic development and tourism promotion terms? The 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics are a one-of-a-kind opportunity and we are focusing our attention not only on Milan but also on the Lombard lakes. Our goal is to ensure that the legacy of this great event is a concrete one, especially in terms of tourist, economic and infrastructure development. Our goal is that all those coming to the Olympics will also find out about the attractions of our lakes and experience them with modern, sustainable services. Our lakes are not solely a tourist attraction, however, but also heritage to be promoted, safeguarded and made more accessible.
Do you have any personal memories linked to lakes or a special place which embodies your relationship with this area?
A very small house my parents had in Porto Valtravaglia, on Lake Maggiore, has a special place in my heart. I spent all my summer holidays there and I remember studying for my high school diploma there with two friends. I remember that when we weren’t studying we used to go out in a little boat to fish some delicious perch which we then ate for dinner.
There’s nothing quite like a lake for beauty and this is why thinking of the lakes brings me joy every time I go back.
