Laino

Welcome to Laino!

Hello everyone! Today I will talk to you about a small municipality in the province of Como, Laino. With its 548 inhabitants, Laino is located in the Val d'Intelvi, a place rich in history and traditions.

Physical Geography of Laino

Discover Laino in the Val d'Intelvi.

Laino is located on a wooded terrace in the northern part of Val d'Intelvi. The village is crossed by the Lirone stream, which originates between Mount Lenno and Cima di Doaria and flows into the Telo branch that runs towards Lake Lugano.

Origins of the Name

The name Laino derives from the founder of a fraction called Jno, Jnus. This fraction constituted the original nucleus of Laino, although today it is partially buried by a landslide.

The History of Laino

The territory of Laino was frequented in Roman times, as evidenced by some artefacts preserved at the Paolo Giovio Archaeological Museum. In the seventh century, a castle was built in San Vittore, at the edge of the plateau, which was part of the Seprio iudicaria. During the Lombard domination, the castle was an important strategic center. In the sixteenth century, the castle passed to the Trivulzio family of Milan. During the Ten-Year War, Laino sided with the people of Como. Later, the village followed the events of the rest of Val d'Intelvi and its parish. During the Middle Ages and until the eighteenth century, Laino was home to families of Magistri Antelami, the most famous of the comacini craftsmen who distinguished themselves throughout Italy and Europe.

Culture in Laino

Laino still preserves the ancient housing fabric and the drawing school founded by painters Giulio Quaglio the Elder and Giulio Quaglio the Younger. In addition, the Società di Belle Arti, a regular school active since 1750 for young people in the valley, was based in Laino.

Conclusions

Laino, with its history and traditions, offers a unique experience. I hope this brief summary has helped you appreciate the beauty and charm of our small municipality. Come and visit us, you will always be welcome!

Martina Caruso
Updated Friday, Feb 4, 2022