Como City of Light
Como is called the “City of Light” because of its connection to Alessandro Volta. Volta, one of the greatest Italian scientists, was born in Como in 1745. He is famous for inventing the electric battery, the first generator of direct current. This groundbreaking discovery paved the way for the development of electricity as we know it today.
This connection with Volta made light a key part of the city’s cultural identity. Here, light represents both an electrical phenomenon and a symbol of innovation and knowledge.
Places Dedicated to Alessandro Volta
Como offers many monuments and sites honoring Volta. The Tempio Voltiano stands out as one of the most important. This museum displays scientific instruments, documents, and artifacts from his research. Visitors interested in the history of science shouldn’t miss it.
The Voltiano Lighthouse in San Maurizio, Brunate, rose in 1927 under engineer Gabriele Giussani’s design. This octagonal tower stands 29 meters tall and overlooks the valley below. Inside, a spiral staircase with 143 steps leads to two circular balconies. From these points, visitors enjoy breathtaking views of the western Alpine arc, including Monte Rosa. From sunset to dawn, the lighthouse alternates green, white, and red lights.
Another major work is “The Life Electric.” The renowned architect Daniel Libeskind created this contemporary sculpture. It honors Volta’s discoveries and serves as a modern symbol of the city.
Daniel Libeskind and His Architectural Style
Daniel Libeskind is an internationally acclaimed architect. Born in Poland in 1946 and later naturalized as an American citizen, he is known for his bold and visionary style. His works feature sharp lines, innovative geometric shapes, and strong emotional impact.
Some of his most famous projects include:
• The Jewish Museum in Berlin
• The Master Plan for the World Trade Center reconstruction in New York
• The Imperial War Museum in Manchester
Libeskind’s ability to merge architecture with symbolic storytelling has made him one of the most influential figures in contemporary design.
The Life Electric: A Modern Icon
Como City of Light unveiled “The Life Electric” in 2015. Located at the end of the Piero Caldirola breakwater, in the first basin of Lake Como, the sculpture quickly became a landmark. Moreover, visitors can easily reach it from the Mafalda di Savoia lakeside promenade.
Rising about 13.75 meters tall, the sculpture features two opposing sinusoids, symbolizing the electric tension between the poles of a battery. As a result, this striking design pays clear homage to Alessandro Volta’s discoveries.
Furthermore, the stainless steel construction gives the structure a seamless connection with the surrounding landscape. During the day, it reflects the sky, water, and mountains. At night, an advanced LED lighting system transforms it into a glowing focal point. Consequently, the reflections amplify the lake’s beauty, creating a captivating visual display.
“Life Electric is inspired by the electric tension between two poles of a battery, Volta’s great gift to humanity. The shape of the installation embodies my constant search for the architectural representation of energy. The work connects the elements: light, wind, and water. It offers both a physical and an ideal perspective on the 21st century.” — Daniel Libeskind
A Unique Experience of Art, Science, and Nature
Through these events and artistic installations, Como truly earns its name as the “City of Light.” It celebrates the scientific heritage of Alessandro Volta and the extraordinary beauty of its landscape. For lovers of art, science, and nature, Como is an unmissable destination.