Tempio Voltiano (Volta Temple)
Monument in Como
A true mausoleum dedicated to the genius of Alessandro Volta, the Tempio Voltiano in Como is a stunning example of Lombard Neoclassical architecture and one of the city’s must-see attractions. Built in 1927 to commemorate the centenary of Volta’s death, this monument overlooks the first basin of Lake Como and is surrounded by gardens and small beaches, popular spots for locals, especially the younger generation, to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Designed by architect Federico Frigerio and donated to the city by Francesco Somaini, the Tempio Voltiano was conceived as a modern Pantheon. Its interior features a circular hall nearly 12 meters in diameter, crowned by a dome with a central skylight. The mausoleum, the only one in the world dedicated to a scientist, houses a museum displaying Volta’s inventions, including his scientific instruments and documents.
Celebrated on the back of the 10,000 lire banknote dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the Tempio Voltiano is just one of several monuments in Como honoring its most illustrious inventor. Others include the Faro Voltiano in Brunate, a 29-meter-high tower overlooking the valley, and the “Life Electric” statue, created by Daniel Libeskind in 2015.
The Tempio Voltiano (Volta Temple) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Como!
This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!
Visiting Tempio Voltiano (Volta Temple)
Nearby Attractions
- Monumento alla Resistenza Europea (Monument to the European Resistance) (0.2) km
Monument in Como - The Life Electric (0.4) km
Monument in Como - Statua di Alessandro Volta (Statue of Alessandro Volta) (0.5) km
Statue in Como - Piazza Cavour, Como (0.5) km
Square in Como - Broletto di Como (Old Town Hall) (0.7) km
Town Hall in Como - Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como) (0.7) km
Cathedral in Como - Teatro Sociale (Social Theater) (0.8) km
Theatre in Como - Basilica di San Fedele (Basilica of Saint Fidelis) (0.9) km
Church in Como - City Walls, Como (1.0) km
City Walls in Como - Terme di Como Romana (Roman Baths of Como) (1.0) km
Roman Site in Como
