Montepiatto & Piazzaga

Montepiatto and Piazzaga: Ancient Trails and Natural Wonders

For those looking to escape the lakeside crowds, the mountain hamlets of Montepiatto and Piazzaga offer a journey back in time. Starting from Largo degli Alpini in the upper part of Torno, two historic mule tracks lead into the lush hillsides. While the left path is accessible by authorized off-road vehicles, the right-hand trail is a dedicated hiking route. This scenic walk takes less than an hour and rewards travelers with breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding peaks of the Triangolo Lariano (the "Larian Triangle" between Como, Bellagio, and Lecco).

The Church of Santa Elisabetta and the Hanging Rock

Upon reaching Montepiatto, a short stroll leads to the Church of Santa Elisabetta (Saint Elizabeth). Perched at the village’s highest point (approx. 650 meters / 2,130 feet), this serene sanctuary was built in the 16th century by nuns from the Sacred Heart order of Varese. Just steps away, you will encounter one of the lake's most iconic natural sights:

• Pietra Pendula (Hanging Rock): A massive granodiorite boulder transported here by glaciers over two million years ago during the Pleistocene era.
• The Mushroom Rock: This prehistoric giant balances precariously on a narrow limestone base, likely carved by ancient hands to accentuate its unique "mushroom" shape.
• National Recognition: In 1984, the Lombardy Region officially designated the Pietra Pendula as a protected natural monument.

The Mystery of the Massi Avelli (Burial Tombs)

Continuing toward Piazzaga, a specialized archaeological trail leads deep into the woods to discover the Massi Avelli. These mysterious "bathtub-shaped" tombs were meticulously carved directly into erratic boulders and oriented on an east-west axis. Shrouded in mystery, these relics offer a glimpse into the distant past:

• Noble Resting Places: Archaeologists believe these tombs were reserved for high-ranking individuals, though the exact era remains a subject of debate.
• Ancient Origins: Theories range from the Roman era to the 5th or 6th century AD during the Longobard occupation.
• Trail Preservation: Thanks to the dedicated Associations of Torno, these archaeological treasures are well-maintained, allowing visitors to explore this "outdoor museum" safely.

Whether you choose to head north toward Molina or south across the Monti di Blevio toward Brunate, these trails offer a profound connection to the ancient spirit of the Italian Alps.