Torre Gattoni, Como
Tower in Como
Torre Gattoni is one of Como's most intriguing and lesser-known historic sites, a medieval tower quietly nestled between Viale Varese and Viale Carlo Cattaneo. While modest in appearance, it holds remarkable significance as the place where Alessandro Volta-one of the world's greatest scientists-first explored the mysteries of physics and natural science. This early chapter in Volta's life makes the tower one of the top attractions in Como for visitors interested in scientific history and hidden landmarks.
The tower once belonged to Jesuit naturalist Giulio Cesare Gattoni, Volta's mentor, who encouraged the young scholar's curiosity and allowed him to use his laboratory and natural history collection. Torre Gattoni is often visited on walking tours of Como by those looking to trace the roots of Volta's lifelong passion for scientific discovery.
History and Significance of Torre Gattoni
Torre Gattoni stands on the outer edge of Como's ancient defensive walls, part of the medieval fortifications that once protected the city. Its transformation into a place of scientific study began when Giulio Cesare Gattoni-Jesuit, naturalist, and teacher-established a physics laboratory and natural history cabinet inside the tower. Recognizing the potential of the young Alessandro Volta, Gattoni granted him rare access to these resources.
It was within these walls that Volta performed his earliest experiments, laying the foundation for a future that would revolutionize the understanding of electricity with the invention of the Voltaic Pile. Torre Gattoni is thus not only a historic monument but a symbolic birthplace of modern electrochemistry.
In the 1930s, the tower gained a new role when it became a substation used to light the city until 1958. Some of the electrical equipment from this period remains visible, adding a fascinating second layer to the tower’s scientific narrative.
Things to See and Do in Torre Gattoni
Visitors can admire Torre Gattoni from the outside, appreciating its sturdy medieval construction along the tree-lined boulevards bordering the old city. While interior access is limited, the tower's exterior offers insight into the architectural character of Como's historic defenses.
Even from the outside, the knowledge that this humble tower once held Volta’s first laboratory adds an inspiring dimension to the visit. Some electrical equipment from the 1930s substation era can still be observed, providing a striking contrast between centuries of scientific progress.
The surrounding area is ideal for a peaceful walk along the remains of Como’s city walls, with nearby viewpoints and green spaces offering pleasant photo opportunities.
How to Get to Torre Gattoni
Torre Gattoni is located along the outer edge of Como's old town between Viale Varese and Viale Carlo Cattaneo. Travelers arriving from abroad usually fly into Milan Malpensa or Milan Linate airports, both connected to Como by frequent trains and buses. 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 provides convenient access, and from there it's an easy walk through the city toward the historic walls. 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 simple thanks to well-connected regional roads, though parking near the walls may be limited. Public garages and designated parking areas in the city center are recommended. 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 Torre Gattoni
- Best time to visit Torre Gattoni: Late morning or afternoon when the surrounding streets are quiet.
- Entrance fee in Euros: Not applicable; the tower is viewed from the outside.
- Opening hours: Exterior always accessible; interior access limited to occasional events.
- Official website: Search “Torre Gattoni Como” for information on special openings.
- How long to spend: 10-20 minutes.
- Accessibility: The surrounding pavements are accessible; no interior access for visitors.
- Facilities: Cafés and shops available in the nearby old town.
- Photography tip: Capture the tower against the curve of the ancient walls for added context.
- Guided tours: Sometimes included in scientific or historical walking tours.
- Nearby food options: Numerous cafés and trattorias within a short walk in the old town.
Where to Stay close to Torre Gattoni
Staying near Como's historic center provides easy access to Torre Gattoni and other landmarks associated with Alessandro Volta. Albergo Firenze offers a central stay close to major attractions. For lakeside elegance, Palace Hotel is an excellent choice. Hotel Tre Re provides traditional charm within comfortable walking distance of the tower.
Is Torre Gattoni Worth Visiting?
Yes. Torre Gattoni is one of the must-see places in Como for those interested in the early life of Alessandro Volta and the city's scientific heritage. While modest, the tower's story is powerful-it marks the spot where a brilliant young mind first began exploring the ideas that would electrify the world.
What Other Travellers Say...
Gattoni Tower on Viale Varese in Como is a pleasant spot reached by a nice walk and popular for wandering around rather than a long visit inside; visitors note a lively Saturday flea market that transforms the area, plenty of nearby places to sit and have a drink, and that market days can be very crowded.
FAQs for Visiting Torre Gattoni
Nearby Attractions to Torre Gattoni
- Como's Ancient City Walls: Remains of the medieval fortifications surrounding the old town.
- Tempio Voltiano: Neoclassical museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta.
- Faro Voltiano: A hilltop lighthouse honoring Volta's legacy.
- Piazza Cavour: Como's lively lakeside square.
- Como Cathedral: The city's grand Gothic-Renaissance basilica.
The Torre Gattoni 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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