Carate Urio

An island of peace on Lake Como

Carate Urio is a small town of 1,128 inhabitants located on the western shore of Lake Como, in the heart of Lombardy. Surrounded by the Comana and Colmegnone mountains and immersed in nature, this picturesque village stands out for its tranquility and relaxing atmosphere.

Among forests and natural trails

The territory of Carate Urio is characterized by the presence of forests and natural trails that invite visitors to discover the beauty of the landscape. Here, visitors can admire the typical tree species of the area, such as Robinia, Hazelnut, Chestnut, Beech, Alder, and Birch. Among the most striking landmarks of the village is the church of San Rocco, built in the 10th century AD and evidence of the presence of a compact Christian community since that era.

Carate Urio: the island of peace on Lake Como.

Origin of the name

Several theories circulate about the toponym "Carate," including one that traces it back to the Celtic language and interprets it as "place of stone," referring to the stone quarries in the area. As for the toponym "Urio," it is thought to derive from the Orobi population or from the Greek term ὅρος (oros), meaning "mountain."

An ancient history

The town of Carate Urio has an ancient history, evidenced by the discovery of Gallic tombs and Roman gravestones. In the medieval era, the village was part of the Nesso parish in the Duchy of Milan and, starting in 1647, became a fiefdom of the Francesco Gallio family, Duke of Alvito. Over the centuries, it underwent many transformations and aggregations, until the creation of the municipality of Carate Urio in 1927 by merging the municipalities of Carate Lario and Urio.

The flood event of 2021

Even Carate Urio was not immune to the adverse meteorological events of recent years. In July 2021, the town was hit by a flood that caused the collapse of a bridge near the hamlet of Cavadino. However, thanks to the determination and solidarity of its inhabitants, the village was able to react and overcome the emergency.

The coat of arms of Carate Urio

The coat of arms of Carate Urio was granted in 1929 and represents the profile of Mount Comana with a crenellated tower in the center, a symbol of strength and stability. The red color of the background refers to the Milanese banner, in which the town was included.

Carate Urio is a charming village that deserves to be discovered and appreciated for its beauty and authenticity. Here time seems to have stood still, offering an atmosphere of peace and serenity that will make you feel at home.

Martina Caruso
Updated Tuesday, Feb 8, 2022