Castello di Lierna

Castello di Lierna: A Medieval Village Frozen in Time

The Borgo di Castello sits on a natural promontory just north of Lierna, looking toward Varenna. While the Castle of Lierna dates back to the Roman era, it was extensively redesigned throughout the centuries. Today, visitors can still admire the original medieval lakeside walls, the foundations of an ancient watchtower, and the 11th-century Church of Santi Maurizio e Lazzaro.

The fortifications of Castello di Lierna

Official records first describe the Castle of Lierna as a formidable fortress during the Ten Years' War (1117–1127), a fierce conflict between Como and Milan. Allied with Milan, Lierna’s forces secured a decisive victory over the troops from Como in August 1127. The castle served as a vital defensive outpost for four centuries under the Duchy of Milan. By the 16th century, however, it lost its strategic military importance and was transformed into a residential and commercial hub, utilizing the easy lake access from Riva Bianca and Riva Nera for trade.

Castello di Lierna: A village where time stands still

Now a peaceful residential hamlet, the Castello di Lierna offers a unique atmosphere where houses lean against one another, separated only by narrow alleys and hidden, flower-filled courtyards. This "sublime enchantment" culminates in the central square, home to the Church of Santi Maurizio e Lazzaro. Dating back to the 1000s, the church facade features frescoes of the two saints depicted as warriors. Inside, it houses a sacred relic of San Maurizio, which is carried through the streets in a solemn candlelit procession every September 22nd to honor the patron saint.