Nesso

Nesso: The Village of the Great Ravine

Located halfway between Como and Bellagio, Nesso is a village of ancient Celtic and Roman origins that sits dramatically where the mountain meets the lake. The town’s historic heart is built at the confluence of two mountain torrents, the Tuf and the Nosè. Together, they plunge through a deep rock cleft to form the Orrido di Nesso (Nesso Ravine), a spectacular waterfall that dives directly into the crystal-clear waters of Lake Como.

Iconic Landmarks: The Bridge and the Ravine

No visit to Nesso is complete without experiencing its most famous sights:

• The Orrido Waterfall: This natural wonder is best viewed from Piazza Castello or from the water.
• Ponte della Civera (Civera Bridge): A stunning medieval stone bridge with a double Romanesque arch. It spans the mouth of the ravine and can be reached via the characteristic stone steps leading down through the hamlets of Riva and Coatesa.

Sacred Art and Historic Churches

Nesso preserves a rich spiritual heritage scattered across its hamlets:

• Church of San Martino (Saint Martin): Located in Careno, one of the lake's most authentic spots, this 12th-century Romanesque church is famous for its majestic bell tower integrated into the façade.
• Church of Santa Maria in Vico: Known for its precious paintings by the master Bartolomeo de Benzi.
• Parish of Santi Pietro e Paolo (Saints Peter and Paul): A grand Baroque-style church built in the 17th century overlooking the lakefront.

Natural Wonders and Hiking

For nature enthusiasts and hikers, Nesso offers extraordinary geological and trekking opportunities:

The town is a key stop along the Antica Strada Regia, the historic mule track that once connected Como to Bellagio. For those looking to explore deeper, the mountain road leads up to the villages of Velso and Zelbio, eventually reaching Pian del Tivano—a high-altitude plateau famous for its karst caves and underground springs, including the Grotta Masera in Careno.