Streets squares and districts to visit Italian Switzerland

During the celebration of the centenary of Napoleon's Act of Mediation, which established the autonomy of the canton, this square took its current name. The square coincides with the southern access to the medieval city and echoes the Piazza del Sole, which gave access to the city to those arriving from the north. Nowadays, Piazza del Sole has been completely restored by the architect Livio Vacchini. A little further on is another important square: the Piazza della Collegiata called Piazza Grande.

It is the oldest square in the city, the only one whose name is mentioned since the Middle Ages. It was here that the communal well where the inhabitants used to get their supplies and where the town hall is located. The present building from the beginning of the 20th century is reconstructed on the remains of an earlier building, dating from the 14th century, which corresponded to the Copertum comunis. It was here that justice was administered. In the 15th century it was renovated and included the meeting rooms of the local government, the chancellery and the Milanese officers' residence.

In the vicinity of Lugano, 5 km to the north-east, on the Italian border, you won't miss the small village of Gandria. It is one of the most beautiful villages on the lake and in the canton of Ticino. At the foot of Mount Bré, this picturesque village offers its most beautiful view, like many, from the lake. To visit the village, there is nothing better than getting lost in the narrow streets on foot and admiring the old olive oil press, for example. Two walks are proposed by the tourist office: the "sentier de Gandria" in 1h30 or the "Cantine di Gandria" in 2 hours, ideal in summer