Museums in Como

Como’s Museums: Art, Silk, and Innovation

Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, Como is a vibrant cultural capital. From its centuries-old silk heritage to cutting-edge 20th-century art, the city’s museums offer a deep dive into the creativity and craftsmanship that shaped Northern Italy.

Silk Educational Museum (Museo Didattico della Seta)

Experience the "journey of the golden thread" in a city that has led the world’s silk industry for centuries. This museum houses a complete collection of original machinery, detailing every phase of production. Visitors can follow the fascinating transformation from silkworm eggs to delicate thread, and from complex weaving and printing to the final, luxurious fabric.

• Location: Via Castelnuovo, 9 | Tel. +39 031 303180
• Opening hours: Tuesday from 14:00 to 18:00, Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 18:00 (closed on Mondays).

Civic Art Collections at Palazzo Volpi

Housed in a historic palace, the Civiche Raccolte d'Arte showcase the artistic soul of the Como region. The collection spans from the Romanesque era to rare frescoes rescued from the lost Monastery of Santa Margherita. A highlight for modern art lovers is the section dedicated to the "Como School" of 20th-century painting, featuring influential works by Mario Radice and Carla Badiali.

• Location: Via Diaz, 84 | Tel. +39 031 269869
• Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Closed: Mondays and major public holidays (Dec 8, 25, 26; Jan 1, 6).

MuST: Textile Studio Museum (Antonio Ratti Foundation)

A true hidden gem for designers and historians, the Antonio Ratti Foundation offers a state-of-the-art multimedia experience. It preserves a world-class archive of over 400,000 textile samples, ranging from medieval fabrics to opulent Renaissance velvets and brocades. All exhibits are digitally cataloged for an interactive exploration of textile history.

• Location: Via per Cernobbio, 19 | Tel. +39 031 3384976
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM & 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Water Sports Temple & Shrine (Tempio Sacrario)

Perched in a panoramic position along the scenic road to Brunate, this unique sanctuary is dedicated to the local heroes of competitive water sports. Inside, you’ll find fascinating nautical memorabilia and a one-of-a-kind collection of Nativity scenes crafted entirely from marine materials. It’s a peaceful stop with a stunning view over the lake.

• Location: Via per Brunate | Tel. +39 031 305958
• Hours: Sundays and holidays, 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM
• Admission: Free.