Arona

Planning a trip to Lake Maggiore? Don’t miss Arona! This tiny town offers the perfect solution for a mix of history, nature, and modern amenities. It hosts an UNESCO World Heritage Site: the prehistoric pile dwellings at the Mercurago Lakes Natural Park.

With its convenient location near Milan, Arona is easily accessible. Train and buses connects Arona with nearby airports and northern Italy main cities.

So, what’s so special about Arona? Well, for starters, it’s got a rich history that dates back centuries. Or, if you’re more into the outdoors, you can hike up the Mercurago Park hills or visit the multiples Necropolis it is home of. And let’s not forget the food: think fresh fish from the lake, creamy risotto, and hearty pasta dishes.

What to see in Arona

Besides the obvious beauty of Lake Maggiore, there’s a whole world to discover here. Start with the Colosso of San Carlo Borromeo, a towering statue that’ll make you feel like a tiny ant. Then, wander through the charming streets of the old town, where you’ll find hidden gems like the Church of Santa Maria di Loreto and the Rocca Borromea castle park. Trust me, Arona has something for you, I promise.

1. Colosso of San Carlo Borromeo

This colossal copper statue stands tall on the hill above Arona (according to the original project, should have become the “Sacro Monte di Arona“), overlooking Lake Maggiore. It’s so massive that it is similar to the Statue of Liberty (with no basement)! Now, you might be wondering why someone would build a statue this big. Well, it’s all thanks to Carlo Borromeo, a 16th-century cardinal who was a big deal in the area. The locals loved him so much, they decided to build a giant statue in his honor.

The statue took almost 80 years to complete, and it’s a masterpiece of engineering. The copper sheets that make up the statue were hammered out by hand, and the whole thing is held together by a complex system of iron beams. It’s a testament to the skill and dedication of the craftsmen who worked on it. The Sancarlone was a truly titanic work: for two centuries it was the tallest monument in the world among statues that could be visited inside.

Its primacy fell in 1886 when the Statue of Liberty was erected, which, however, is linked to the Sancarlone by a bond as thin as it is solid. The French sculptor and patriot Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi stayed in Arona in 1869 to study the statue and its internal structure for the Statue of Liberty project. In fact, initially, the New York statue was to have the same “soul” as the Piedmontese one: a load-bearing part made of bricks to which a cladding would be anchored, the sheets that make up the actual monument.

2. Rocca Borromea Park

While Arona isn’t as famous for its castles as neighboring towns like Angera, it still has a park worth exploring: the Parco della Rocca Borromea. This peaceful green oasis is a great place to escape the traffic of the city and enjoy some fresh air.

The park is located on a hill overlooking the town and the lake. While there’s no imposing castle like the Rocca Borromea in Angera, the park still offers plenty to see and do. You can stroll through the tree-lined paths, explore the ruins of an ancient castle that once stood on the site, relax on the benches, or enjoy panoramic views of the Lake.

There’s also a playground for kids and a small lake where you can rent rowboats. Don’t miss the panoramic viewpoint at the top of the hill. From here, you can see the entire town of Arona, as well as the beautiful Lake Maggiore and the Angera imposing Castle.

3. Mercurago Lakes Natural Park

Arona holds a fascinating secret: the Mercurago Lakes Natural Park and Necropolis. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a window into the lives of our prehistoric ancestors. Beneath his peaceful exterior lies a hidden treasure: the necropolis. Here, archaeologists have unearthed the remains of an ancient pile-dwelling settlement. These structures were built on platforms over the water, providing protection from predators and floods.

You’ll see preserved wooden artifacts, tools, and even the bones of the people who lived here thousands of years ago. It’s a truly mind-boggling experience to realize that these ancient inhabitants once walked the same paths you’re taking today.

Beyond the necropolis, the Mercurago Lakes Natural Park offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. You can hike through the park’s trails, rent a boat to explore the lakes, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

4. Both Santa Marta church and Santi Martiri church

Two of Arona most notable religious landmarks are the Church of Santa Marta and the Church of the Santi Martiri. Both if you’re a devout believer or simply curious about the local history and culture, these two churches offer “a snapshot” of the spiritual heart of Arona.

The Church of Santa Marta is a beautiful church dedicated to Saint Martha, the sister of Lazarus. Its origins date back to the 16th century, although it underwent significant renovations in the 18th century. The church boasts a stunning Baroque interior, adorned with ornate frescoes and intricate carvings. The highlight is the altar piece, a masterpiece of religious art depicting the life of Saint Martha.

The Church of the Santi Martiri is located in the heart of Arona, is another must-visit. This ancient church dates back to the 10th century and is one of the oldest in the region. Its Romanesque architecture is evident in its sturdy stone walls and simple yet elegant interior. The church houses a number of valuable works of art, including a beautiful wooden crucifix and several paintings depicting scenes from the lives of the saints.

5. Lakeside promenade and Historical center

Strolling along the shores of a crystal-clear lake by walk of cycling, that’s the experience you’ll have on Arona’s Lakeside Promenade. As you stroll along the promenade, you’ll pass by historic buildings, elegant villas, and charming shops.

One of the highlights of the promenade is the Piazza del Popolo, a lively square that’s a great place to people-watch and enjoy the local culture. From here, you can also take a boat trip on the lake or explore the nearby historical center.

The historical center of Arona is a maze of narrow streets and hidden courtyards. You’ll find ancient churches, medieval towers, and Renaissance palaces. Be sure to check out the Palazzo della Pretura, a beautiful building.

Arona’s Beaches

Arona hosts a stunning lakeside promenade and several well-maintained public areas perfect for enjoying the sun and water. Arona’s waterfront offers a variety of options for relaxation and recreation. Here some:

Sorriso beach (smile beach)

This little beach is tucked away in a quiet corner of the town. The beach itself is relatively small, but it’s perfectly formed with soft sand and clear, shallow waters. There’s also a playground nearby, making it a great option for families with kids, even a few trees providing shade. One of the best things about Spiaggia del Sorriso is its peaceful atmosphere, you will really enjoy the tranquility of the lake.

Rocchette beach

Rocchette Beach is a spacious public beach with plenty of room to spread out and relax. There are grassy areas where you can picnic or simply soak up the sun, and direct access to the lake for swimming or sunbathing. The water is generally calm and clear. There’s no loud music or rowdy crowds here, just the sound of the waves lapping against the shore.

Alice beach

Alice Beach, a small but charming beach located just a short walk from the town center, offers a lovely spot. This peaceful oasis is surrounded by florish vegetations and allows you to rent a boat or paddleboard if you’re feeling adventurous. While Alice Beach may not have all the amenities of a larger beach, it has a unique vibes that are hard to beat.

Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the tranquility of Arona’s beaches. Come and discover the beauty of Arona.