Malgrate
Welcome to Malgrate: A Brief Introduction
Hello everyone! Today we will talk about Malgrate, a small municipality located in the province of Lecco in Lombardy. Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Malgrate boasts a very ancient history. This location has been a popular holiday destination since the 18th century and was known as the "Venice of Lario" thanks to its sumptuous palaces and vibrant cultural and artistic life.
Physical Geography
Malgrate has an enviable location and excellent panoramic views of the lake and the city of Lecco, which is only a few hundred meters away. The town is surrounded by lush green mountains that offer numerous hiking trails. You can take a stroll in the Adda Nord Park or visit the Grigna Settentrionale Regional Park, just 10 km away.
Origin of the Name
The name Malgrate has an ancient root and dates back to the Roman era when it was called Antesitum, which means "beach located in front". It is said that the first inhabitants of the area were fishermen and boatmen who even ferried Julius Caesar across the lake. In 1126, during the conflicts between the cities of Milan, Lecco, and Como, Malgrate underwent a heavy siege by the people of Como, and its small fort, San Grato, was destroyed. After the siege, the name was changed to Malgrato, then evolved into its current form of Malgrate.
History
Malgrate has a very rich and tumultuous history. During the War of the Decades, the village was plundered several times. In the sixteenth century, it was the scene of a bloody battle between Gian Giacomo Medici and the Duchy of Milan. Over the centuries, Malgrate has grown enormously to become a prestigious tourist destination. In the eighteenth century, the first manor houses were built, some of which are still visible today.
Symbols
The symbol of Malgrate is a coat of arms depicting a steep tower on a red field, with a blue band spanning over it and the word "Malgrate" in white. This coat of arms was granted by the President of the Italian Republic in 2007.
Culture and Events
Malgrate is a tourist destination that offers numerous opportunities for fun and a pleasant vacation. In summer, you can enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the lake and its equipped beaches. Outdoor sports enthusiasts can practice trekking, mountain biking, fishing, and sport climbing. Of particular interest is the Visconteo Bridge, dating back to the fourteenth century, which connects Malgrate to Lecco and offers a breathtaking view of the lake.
Malgrate is also famous for its lively cultural life: the Tito Livio Theatre and the Civic Library are just some of the numerous structures that host important cultural events. In July, the Kite Festival is held, an event that attracts enthusiasts and curious people from all over Italy.
What to Eat and Where to Stay
Malgrate offers numerous enogastronomic and hotel solutions. The local cuisine is based on genuine and traditional ingredients such as lake fish and Valsassina cheeses. The Dragoncello restaurant will delight you with its gastronomic specialties and panoramic views of the lake. If you prefer to spend the night in a hotel, I recommend the Grand Hotel Malgrate, located directly on the lake.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Malgrate is a location that combines history, culture, enogastronomy, and tourism. Despite being relatively small, it offers numerous opportunities for leisure and relaxation in a convivial and typically Italian atmosphere. If you decide to visit Malgrate, I assure you that you will not be disappointed! Come and discover the "Venice of Lario" and the beauty of Lake Como.
