 Lugano offers world-class culture and architecture in the setting of a charming small city. The climate is Mediterranean, giving rise to a lush vegetation; the character of the inhabitants is distinctly Latin; and the blend of Italian ease and Swiss efficiency, unique.
The city abounds with gentle temptations: stroll past the chic shop windows of the Via Nassa, perhaps, or amble along the lakefront promenade with an ice cream. Relax in one of the city parks and gardens, or stop for a drink in one of the stylish bars and cafes. Take a dip in the lake — or head up into the mountains of the pre-Alps, just a short hop away.
Art, architecture, design.
Lugano is home to a large number of museums and galleries, which display their wealthy collections with characteristic flair. Thanks also to a busy programme of top-class exhibitions, they enjoy a worldwide reputation. The city has a very rich musical life as well. A cycle of festivals of all kinds takes place in the open air from spring through to autumn; while in the cooler months, the city’s concert halls stage a lively programme of classical music concerts of international standard.
The region as a whole is packed with artistic and historical gems, from local museums to churches built in all manner of styles. Last, but certainly not least, are the buildings that showcase the latest in modern Ticino architecture. The most celebrated of the contemporary architects is without doubt Mario Botta. Among his works are the Banca del Gottardo building, the Biblioteca Salita dei Frati, and the Palazzo Ransila, all in Lugano, as well as the church of Santa Maria degli Angeli up on Monte Tamaro. All are fine examples of the exceptionally rich and creative Ticino School.
While Mario Botta may be the most famous in his field today, it is well worth seeing the work of those who prepared the way for the current generation of architects. Doyen of them all is Rino Tami, as his Biblioteca Cantonale (cantonal library) in the Parco Ciani shows (built in 1940, renovated in 2005). Other outstanding exponents have included Alberto Camenzind and Augusto Jäggli; Tita Carloni, who designed the Casa del Popolo and the Palazzo Garzoni; Peppo Brivio, who built the striking Albaironi apartment block in Massagno; and Carlo Ponti.
Highlights.
Piazza della Riforma. The city’s open-air living room is framed by magnificent palazzi and charming terrace cafes.
Parco Ciani. The grounds of the Villa Ciani (home of the city’s fine arts museum), stretching down to the lakeshore, have a seductively southern feel.
Cattedrale di San Lorenzo. The city’s cathedral stands on Roman foundations, and boasts a magnificent Renaissance façade and opulent frescoes in the interior.
Church of Santa Maria degli Angioli. The monumental fresco in the interior depicts the Passion of Christ, and was painted in 1529 by Bernardino Luini. |
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