An ancient route along the entire western shore of Lake Como

The Via Regina is an ancient route, running along the entire western shore of Lake Como. The extremely ancient pathways, signposted halfway up the mountain slope, were unified and rebuilt by the Romans who gave this new route the name, Via Regia, which means mainroad, afterwards changed to Via Regina, after the passage of the Longobard Queen Teodolinda. For centuries the Via Regina has been the connecting route between North and South of the Alps, between Como and Milan and the transalpine regions, across the Spluga and Maloja Pass; a travel and business route, where armies and travellers passed on a route that became an intense place of cultural exchange.

Strada Regina has witnessed the flourishing of many village, bit by bit enriched with artistic heritage. Today, the a large part of the ancient road is still walkable. Walkers appreciate the pathway on the northern part of the lake, especially the part where Nobiallo meets Rezzonico.

Strada Regia is the ancient road connected Como with Bellagio, along the lake shore. It was a maze of mule trails across the small villages, along the walls of Triangolo Lariano Mountains and with a dock. These villages today maintain their ancient structures: maybe this is the reason of their marvellous and fascinating aspect.