The Life Electric, Como
Monument in Como
Life Electric is one of Como's most captivating contemporary landmarks, standing at the end of the breakwater near the mouth of the harbor. Unveiled in 2015, this polished stainless-steel sculpture by architect and artist Daniel Libeskind serves as a modern homage to Alessandro Volta, the Como-born physicist who invented the electric battery. Its gleaming 16.5-meter form represents the flow and tension of electrical energy, making it one of the top attractions in Como for visitors who appreciate the intersection of art, science, and nature.
Walking along the pier toward the sculpture is a memorable experience. The piece shimmers with reflections of the lake, sky, and surrounding mountains, and it changes character with every movement of the light and water. Its presence on the harbor's breakwater makes it a highlight of any walking tour of Como, offering some of the most beautiful lakefront views in the city.
History and Significance of Life Electric
Designed by Daniel Libeskind-one of the world's leading contemporary architects-Life Electric was commissioned to celebrate Alessandro Volta's contributions to science. The sculpture was inaugurated in 2015, completing a symbolic trilogy of Volta monuments in Como, together with the Tempio Voltiano and the Faro Voltiano. Libeskind's design aims to capture the essence of electrical energy: dynamic, fluid, and full of potential.
Standing 16.5 meters tall, the sculpture's curving stainless-steel surfaces reflect the ever-changing interplay of sky and water. This reflective quality symbolizes the flow of ideas and the continuity between past discoveries and present innovations. The location was chosen intentionally: set at the end of a long pier, the piece bridges the natural world, the lakefront, and the cultural identity of Como.
At night, Life Electric becomes even more striking, illuminated by soft lighting that brings out its sculptural contours while reflecting the city lights and the hills beyond. It has quickly become a beloved contemporary symbol of Como and a reminder of the brilliance of Volta's legacy.
Things to See and Do in Life Electric
The experience begins with the walk along the pier. As you approach the sculpture, its shape seems to shift in response to your movement, thanks to the reflective surfaces and curving lines. This dynamic interaction was central to Libeskind’s design, allowing visitors to experience the artwork from multiple perspectives.
Once at the sculpture, pause to observe the reflections of the lake and mountains against its polished stainless-steel surfaces. On sunny days, the interplay of light creates a beautiful, shimmering effect. From the end of the pier, there are excellent views of Como's waterfront, the Tempio Voltiano, and the surrounding hills.
At night, Life Electric is illuminated, offering a dramatic contrast against the dark water and sky. Many visitors enjoy a peaceful evening stroll to the sculpture to enjoy the atmosphere and take night photographs.
How to Get to Life Electric
Life Electric is located on the breakwater at the end of the pier near Como's harbor. Most international travelers reach Como via Milan Malpensa or Milan Linate airports, both offering easy connections to the city by train or bus. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Como on Booking.com.
If arriving by train, Como San Giovanni station is within walking distance of the waterfront. From there, follow the lakeside promenade toward the harbor until you reach the pier. 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.
Traveling by car is straightforward, though parking near the waterfront can be limited. Public garages and designated parking areas near Piazza Cavour are convenient options. 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 Life Electric
- Best time to visit Life Electric: Sunset or nighttime for dramatic reflections and lighting.
- Entrance fee in Euros: Free; the pier and sculpture are open to the public.
- Opening hours: Accessible at all hours, weather permitting.
- Official website: Search “Life Electric Como” for background information.
- How long to spend: 20-40 minutes, depending on photography and strolling.
- Accessibility: Flat, even walkway along the pier suitable for most visitors.
- Facilities: Cafés, restaurants, and restrooms available along the nearby promenade.
- Photography tip: Capture reflections in the sculpture on calm lake days; silhouettes are great at sunset.
- Guided tours: Often included in modern-art-themed or lakeside walking tours.
- Nearby food options: Excellent gelaterias and lakeside cafés near Piazza Cavour.
Where to Stay close to Life Electric
Staying near the waterfront puts Life Electric right at your doorstep. Palace Hotel offers elegant lakefront accommodation with easy access to the pier. Just a short walk away, Albergo Firenze provides a convenient and comfortable stay near Piazza Cavour. Visitors preferring a historic ambiance can choose Hotel Tre Re, located within walking distance of the harbor and the old town.
Is Life Electric Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Life Electric is one of the must-see places in Como, seamlessly blending contemporary art with the natural beauty of Lake Como. Whether seen in bright daylight or under a glowing night sky, the sculpture offers a fresh, modern perspective on Volta's legacy and the city's evolving cultural landscape.
What Other Travellers Say...
Life Electric is a modern outdoor sculpture on a pier in Como dedicated to Alessandro Volta; visitors praise it as a top viewpoint for sweeping lake and mountain views, especially at sunset, and a peaceful spot for photography. Guests note the walk to the sculpture can be long, the promenade is a popular attraction, it's open around the clock for short visits, and in winter it's less crowded though cold, so dress warmly; some visitors mention humidity and that the lake could use cleaning.
FAQs for Visiting Life Electric
Nearby Attractions to Life Electric
- Tempio Voltiano: A neoclassical museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta.
- Piazza Cavour: Como's lively waterfront square.
- Funicolare Como-Brunate: Scenic lift to panoramic hilltop views.
- Como Cathedral: The city's grand Gothic-Renaissance landmark.
- Lakefront Promenade: Perfect for a relaxing walk along the water.
The The Life Electric 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!
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Planning Your Visit
Nearby Attractions
- Piazza Cavour (0.3) km
Square - Funicular Como-Brunate (0.3) km
Railway - Monumento alla Resistenza Europea (0.4) km
Monument - Tempio Voltiano (0.4) km
Monument - Statua di Alessandro Volta (0.4) km
Statue - Broletto di Como (0.4) km
Town Hall - Como Cathedral (0.5) km
Cathedral - Social Theater (0.5) km
Theatre - Basilica di San Fedele (0.7) km
Church - Terme di Como Romana (0.7) km
Roman Site
