Lake Mergozzo is a small lake not far from Lake Maggiore and it is famous for its limpid and clean water (first in Europe).
The central square of the village is dominated by an ancient elm tree: historical documents attest that the tree was growing in the square as many as 400 years ago. Now completely hollow, it has been given the title of a “monumental tree of Piedmont”.
Of great interest the Romanesque style Church of Santa Marta and the Antiquarium, a museum which houses a rich collection of pre-historic and roman founds dated in the first centuries a. C.
A number of walking paths start from Mergozzo, such as the “Sentiero Azzurro” (Blue Trail) to the hamlet of Montorfano along a track beside the lake. The small village of Montorfano boasts an undeniable historical and archaeological interest thanks to the presence of the Romanesque Church of San Giovanni Battista (XII century). Not far from Mergozzo, the Candoglia quarries are close connected to the magnificent Duomo of Milan. In fact, this is the source of the precious pink marble used for the construction of the renowned Milan masterpiece and is still used for related maintenance and restoration work.
Last but not least the so-called “Linea Cadorna” (Cadorna Line), a path which winds its way on the Montorfano with military fortifications, defensive works, artillery stations and trenches of the First World War (1915-1918).
Don’t miss a taste of Fugascine, the delectable cakes baked only in Mergozzo and available in all the village bakeries.
