Carugo
Welcome to Carugo: a brief guide
Hello everyone! Are you ready for a visit to Carugo, a beautiful town located in the province of Como, in Lombardy? Here you will find a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, surrounded by lush nature. The population is about 6,600 inhabitants and the territorial surface is quite large, with altitudes ranging from 274 m above sea level to 340 m above sea level. Here is a brief guide to discover the beauty of this place.
Discover the geography of Carugo
Carugo is located in western Brianza comasca, between the Lambro and Terrò rivers. In the south you will find the historic center and urban development, while in the north there is a vast forest area, home to the Regional Natural Reserve of Fontana del Guercio. The city is crossed by the Milan-Asso rail line of the Ferrovie Nord Milano and by the provincial road SP32, the "Novedratese".
The history of Carugo
The origins of Carugo are uncertain, but the name seems to come from Celtic languages. The first document in which the name of Carugo is mentioned dates back to 892, when the Franks and Lombards were again at peace, and Maginfredo I of Milan, count of Milan and the surrounding area, elected some judges and notaries for a territorial sharing case. During the decade-long war between Como and Milan, there was a strategic castle of which a tower remains today. This is where the name of the noble family of Carugo originates. In 1222, the castle hosted nobles fleeing from Milan led by Archbishop Enrico I da Settala. But troops sent by the Podestà of Milan destroyed the castle in August of the same year. In addition, the hamlet of Gattedo, called Gatta, is known since the 10th century and hosted a Cathar religious community in the 12th century, which gained notoriety especially in Provence and Languedoc. According to some researchers at the University of York, the fortress of Gattedo constituted "a sort of Italian Montsegur, where the Cathar bishops Nazario and Desiderio were buried." Pope Innocent IV ordered the destruction of the castle in 1254 to avoid the worship of the remains of the bishops buried there, but the church of San Martino and the ancient frescoes preserved inside were spared.
A dive into Carugo's past
Carugo has a very rich and fascinating history, spanning different historical periods. Starting from the 12th century, with the presence of the Cathar sect, the city had the opportunity to come into contact with a radical spirituality that called into question the official ecclesiastical hierarchies. In the 13th century, the castle of Gattedo also hosted nobles on the run during the decade-long war. In the 15th century, the city came under the dominion of the Visconti, then in the 16th century, under that of the Sforza, who kept it under their control until the 19th century.
What to see in Carugo
Carugo is a perfect tourist destination for nature lovers. The Regional Natural Reserve of Fontana del Guercio offers endless natural wonders, with its springs, flora, and fauna. Furthermore, the city is characterized by the presence of the splendid church of San Martino, dating back to the 12th century, with its ancient frescoes. Finally, do not forget to take a stroll in the enchanting historic center, where you will find numerous artisan shops and typical restaurants.
Events and festivals
Carugo is famous for the organization of numerous events and festivals of great attraction, which take place throughout the year. Among these, it is mandatory to mention the Carugo Folk Festival, an annual event now in its 30th edition, which hosts important artists from the international music scene. There are also food fairs, village festivals, and sporting events.
What to eat in Carugo
The cuisine of Carugo is made of intense and genuine flavors, recalling the local tradition. Among the typical dishes, it is mandatory to mention polenta with mushrooms, pizzoccheri, casoncelli, and salame della Brianza. Also, do not forget to taste the delicious traditional desserts, such as torta paesana and torta paradiso.
How to get to Carugo
Carugo is easily reachable by car or train. If you come by car, you can take the A9 Milano-Como-Chiasso motorway, exit at Lomazzo, and follow the signs for Carugo. If you prefer the train, you can take the Milan-Asso railway line of Ferrovie Nord Milano, which will take you directly to Carugo. In both cases, get ready to immerse yourself in a world that will enchant you. Come and visit us in Carugo, we are waiting for you!
