Angera, Lake Maggiore

Red tiled roofs in this pretty Roman town

Featured in: Towns & Villages
Updated: 16 May 2018

The lovely town of Angera dates back to Roman times when it was an important stopping point for boats transferring their wares to the road, and vice-versa. Sitting high above the town is the Rocca Borromeo, a fortress dating back to the 11th century.

Located in a gulf on the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore, the characterful town of Angera was an important spot, controlling the trade traffic in the southern half of the lake. That is the reason why the Borromeo family, influential merchants and bankers in the Duchy of Milan, decided to turn its fortress into a luxury residence in the 14th century.

From its beautiful lakeside promenade you can enjoy views of Lake Maggiore and of the uninhabited Isolino Partegora, a small islet that emerges from the blue waters covered with lush green vegetation.

History & Culture in [locality]

The area of Angera was inhabited in prehistoric times, and artefacts from hunters-gatherers have been found in the cave of Tana del Lupo, on the road that leads to Rocca Borromeo. During Roman times it was an important lakeside port on a trading route for wood and stone via the Ticino river. The current layout of the town centre reflects the Roman town division into districts.

With the arrival of Visigoths in the year 411, Angera was destroyed along with Milan. In the 11th century, it was under the domain of the archbishop of Milan, who built the first fortress on the rock. The building was expanded by the Visconti in the 13th century, and finally became the property of the Borromeo family in 1449, who also bought the town for 12,800 lire. Angera was under Spanish rule for two centuries, and under Austrian government until 1861.

See our History Guide

Sights & Attractions in [locality]

The main monument in Angera is Rocca Borromeo, an 11th-century fortress turned into luxury residence by the Borromeo family in the 14th century. A vital point of defense against the Swiss, you can now visit the castle which boasts wonderful 13th-century frescoes.

The local museum has artefacts from the Roman town, while on the lakeside promenade there is an uncompleted 17th-century sanctuary, Madonna della Riva.

Duomo di Monza Museum, Monza

With origins in the late 6th century, the cathedral of Monza is one of the most important religious buildings in Italy. At this museum, you will find stunning medieval pieces and discover more about the history of this town.
Civico Museo Archeologico (Archaeological Museum), Milan - Centre

This museum houses a superb collection of artefacts from the Roman eras, through to the Middle Ages in a historic monastery.
Museo Poldi Pezzoli (Poldi Pezzoli Museum), Milan - Centre

This museum is one of the most significant house-museums in Europe and shows the taste of one of the finest collectors in the 19th century, the nobleman Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli.
Rocca Borromeo Castle, Angera

The fortified castle of Borromeo sits on a rocky outcrop overlooking the town of Angera and is one of the best-preserved castles in the region. There are spectacular views of Lake Maggiore and across to the Alps, meaning it was an important strategic location.
Santa Maria in Strada Church, Monza

Thus church takes its name from the road ('strada') that connected Monza and Milan. Formerly part of a Franciscan convent, the church was built in 1348 on the site of the monastery's old oratory.
Musei dei Castello (Museums in the Sforzesco Castle), Northeast Milan

The Castello Sforzesco incorporates a whole host of museums inside with exhibitions that range from prehistoric and Egyptian archaeological materials to paintings, sculptures, photographs, drawings, manuscripts, furniture, musical instruments, stamps, coins, medals and much more.

Events in [locality]

There are many small festivals and events that take place in this town, mainly in the summer. Perhaps the most popular is a music festival celebrated in collaboration with other villages on the eastern part of Lake Maggiore called "Il Lago Cromatico" when concerts are organised along the lake's shores, together with gastronomic events, cycling routes, guided tours and much more.

Things to do in [locality]

Apart from visiting the castle, a stroll along the lakeside promenade is a must when in Angera. Under the shade of the trees, you will be able to discover the town's dominating position on Lake Maggiore. If you go in the summer, you might catch the local antiques' market, on the first and second Sunday of the month.

Milano Golf Course

This 18-hole course was built in 1928 in the historic Royal Park of Monza. The three paths of the course are set within an ancient wood, requiring the player to think carefully about each shot, with a focus on precision in the front 9 and long shots on the back 9.
Swissminiatur

If you want to see an overview of Switzerland in miniature, then this is the place to come.
Ranch Barlot Horse Riding

Heading up the hills from Lake Garda is the beautiful Monte Baldo region of sloping forests, lush greenery and flowing rivers.
Le Robinie Golf Course

Big-hitters will enjoy the generous width fairways but be aware of the lake-size water hazards.
Idroscalo in Festa

This large lake, on the eastern side of Milan, was originally built for Mussolini as an airport for seaplanes. Now it is a park for sporting activities and a summer meeting place. Boasting a beach, swimming pools and plenty of open space for walking and cycling as well as other team games, its bursts into life in summer and is a perfect family afternoon with a picnic on a hot day.
Bogliaco Golf Course, Toscolano Maderno

Elevated in the hills on Lake Garda's western side, Bogliaco golf course and resort is blessed with a Mediterranean setting and superb views.

See our Activity Guide

How to get to [locality]

Malpensa Shuttle

Shuttle company offering regular services from Malpensa airport to Milan central train station via Milano Fiera, as well as to Milano Fiera Rho, Linate airport, Bergamo and Monza.
Orio Shuttle, Bergamo

This company offers coach airport transfers from Orio al Serio airport to Milan central station, Malpensa airport, Bergamo and Monza.