Monumento alla Resistenza Europea, Como
Monument in Como
The Monumento alla Resistenza Europea is one of the most thought-provoking landmarks in Como, offering a deeply immersive experience that invites reflection on the tragedies of World War II. Designed in the early 1980s by renowned sculptor Gianni Colombo, the monument is one of the top sights in Como for travelers who appreciate contemporary memorials that challenge perception and provoke dialogue. It stands in the city park near the lakefront, providing a quiet yet powerful space for contemplation.
Colombo's vision was to create a memorial that was not just seen but experienced. His design disrupts balance, confuses the senses, and encourages visitors to engage physically with the structure. As a result, the monument is often visited on walking tours of Como by those who want to explore the city's modern cultural and historical layers.
Table of Contents
- History and Significance of Monumento alla Resistenza Europea
- Things to See and Do in Monumento alla Resistenza Europea
- How to Get to Monumento alla Resistenza Europea
- Practical Tips on Visiting Monumento alla Resistenza Europea
- Where to Stay close to Monumento alla Resistenza Europea
- Is Monumento alla Resistenza Europea Worth Visiting?
- FAQs for Visiting Monumento alla Resistenza Europea
- Nearby Attractions to Monumento alla Resistenza Europea
History and Significance of Monumento alla Resistenza Europea
Gianni Colombo, a leading figure in post-war contemporary art, was commissioned in the 1980s to design a public monument that would honor victims of war and celebrate the values of resistance and remembrance. Known for his kinetic and experimental works, Colombo created a structure that embodies the psychological tension and instability experienced during oppressive regimes.
Inaugurated in May 1983 by Italian President Sandro Pertini, the monument features three staircases that rise toward an “absent” central point-symbolizing loss, void, and the irreparable impact of war. Around this center stand leaning metal tablets engraved with excerpts from the final notes of individuals condemned to death in concentration camps. These inscriptions-translated into seven languages on accompanying marble slabs-form the emotional core of the memorial.
The inclusion of stones from various concentration camps and from Hiroshima deepens the site’s symbolic resonance, connecting European resistance movements with global histories of suffering and resilience. The memorial’s location in Como’s lakeside park ensures that it remains an accessible and dynamic place for dialogue, education, and remembrance.
Things to See and Do in Monumento alla Resistenza Europea
Visitors are encouraged to walk up the staircases, each angled slightly differently, creating a subtle sense of imbalance. This physical disorientation is intentional and central to Colombo’s design, echoing feelings of uncertainty and vulnerability faced by those persecuted during the war.
At the top, the “absent” center invites contemplation, framed by the inclined metal tablets bearing powerful handwritten fragments from condemned prisoners. These writings provide a direct human connection to the individuals behind the historical events, making the experience deeply personal.
Nearby marble slabs offer translations of the notes in seven languages, expanding the memorial’s reach to international visitors. The presence of stones from concentration camps and Hiroshima offers another layer of meaning, reminding visitors of the broader global consequences of violence and oppression.
The surrounding park provides quiet seating areas, making it an ideal spot for reflection before continuing a walk along the lakefront.
How to Get to Monumento alla Resistenza Europea
The monument is located in Como's lakeside park, near major city attractions and easily accessible on foot from the historic center. International visitors typically arrive through Milan Malpensa or Milan Linate airports, both of which provide good transport links to Como by train or bus. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Como on Booking.com.
The nearest major rail stop is Como San Giovanni station, which is within a comfortable walking distance of the park and monument. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.
If you are driving, Como is well connected by regional roads and highways. Parking is available in public garages or near the waterfront, though spaces can be limited during peak times. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Practical Tips on Visiting Monumento alla Resistenza Europea
- Best time to visit Monumento alla Resistenza Europea: Early morning or late afternoon for quiet reflection.
- Entrance fee in Euros: Free public site.
- Opening hours: Accessible year-round.
- Official website: Search “Monumento Resistenza Europea Como” for cultural information.
- How long to spend: 15-30 minutes, depending on reflection and reading time.
- Accessibility: The staircases are angled and may be challenging; park pathways are accessible.
- Facilities: Nearby benches, cafés, and restrooms along the lakefront.
- Photography tip: Capture the angled staircases from below to highlight their disorienting geometry.
- Guided tours: Sometimes included in themed historical tours of Como.
- Nearby food options: Restaurants and cafés along the lakefront promenade.
Where to Stay close to Monumento alla Resistenza Europea
Staying near the lakefront offers beautiful scenery and easy access to the monument. Palace Hotel is an elegant option just steps away. For a central and convenient stay, Albergo Firenze offers comfort near key attractions. Travelers who enjoy historic ambiance might prefer Hotel Tre Re, located within easy reach of the park and Old Town.
Is Monumento alla Resistenza Europea Worth Visiting?
Yes. The Monumento alla Resistenza Europea is one of the must-see places in Como for those interested in contemporary memorial art, European history, or meaningful cultural experiences. Colombo's immersive design transforms remembrance into something felt physically as well as emotionally, making this a powerful and memorable stop.
What Other Travellers Say...
Monumento alla Resistenza Europea on Viale Guglielmo Marconi is a modest but poignant war memorial featuring three staircases and stones brought from Hiroshima and multiple concentration camps; visitors describe a minimal, symbolic design set in green surroundings that invite quiet reflection, with some noting engraved messages on stones and an interactive feel, while others have observed parts of the park and monument in need of maintenance.
FAQs for Visiting Monumento alla Resistenza Europea
Nearby Attractions to Monumento alla Resistenza Europea
- Tempio Voltiano: A museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta's scientific legacy.
- Lakefront Promenade: Ideal for scenic strolls along the water.
- Piazza Cavour: Como's lively central square.
- Funicolare Como-Brunate: Scenic ride to hilltop views.
- Como Cathedral: A grand Gothic-Renaissance landmark in the city center.
The Monumento alla Resistenza Europea appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Como!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!
Planning Your Visit
Nearby Attractions
- Tempio Voltiano (0.2) km
Monument - Statua di Alessandro Volta (0.3) km
Statue - Piazza Cavour (0.4) km
Square - The Life Electric (0.4) km
Monument - Broletto di Como (0.6) km
Town Hall - Como Cathedral (0.6) km
Cathedral - Funicular Como-Brunate (0.7) km
Railway - Social Theater (0.7) km
Theatre - Basilica di San Fedele (0.8) km
Church - Como’s Ancient City Walls (0.8) km
City Walls
