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Media Kit v.1.01 Ente Turistico del Luganese Welcome to !

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to Lovers of art, sculpture and architecture can visit the ’s explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area. art museum and sublime churches dotted throughout the region, ranging from Romanesque to baroque architecture. History, architecture, food and drink, sport, culture, shows: Lugano can offer you all this and so much more. Set in an Just outside the city centre a vast network of paths takes ideal position, on the shores of Lugano, against a you through magnificent forests to picturesque spots such magnificent backdrop of mountains; whether you prefer as on the shores of or Brè, clinging sports or spending your free time looking around to the sides of the slopes of Monte Brè. For more museums, Lugano makes the perfect destination. demanding hikers, Monte Lema, Tamaro, Generoso and San Salvatore offer the opportunity to enjoy higher altitude Thanks to the lake’s mild climate, and clear, transparent walking whilst taking in the glorious landscape below from waters, you can try your hand at windsurfing, water skiing the many viewpoints. and kayaking, or the slightly less adventurous can ply the waters on one of the countless passenger boats linking Lugano has much to offer in the way of leisure activities: Lugano with the other splendid towns and villages along from shopping in Via Nassa to evenings in the many bars the lake shore. The idyllic picture is completed by a great or at the on the lakefront, you’ll never have time to range of Lidos and bathing centres for those who simply get bored. In addition, the region offers great opportunities enjoy sunbathing. But Lugano is so much more than just a for lovers of fine cooking to savour the cuisine, whether summertime destination: every month there is a packed local or international, in restaurants or grottos including calendar of fashion and cultural events enabling visitors to nouvelle cuisine and more traditional dishes, but always really make the most of the city, with endless opportunities accompanied by the excellent locally produced Merlot. to get to know new aspects. Free open air concerts such as Estival Jazz or Blues to Bop, exhibitions and events, The and Lugano landscape draws Swiss and foreign musical seasons of LuganoMusica (new name of tourists on account of its incredible diversity, its lush nature LuganoFestival) and exhibitions of theatre and dance from which is a feature of the entire region, art, culture and LuganoInScena proposals for the new cultural center LAC, sport. A region which is easy to get to and just waiting to be family entertainment such as Christmas, Easter in the City discovered. The area is still very much attached to its age- or the Autumn Festival, are just some examples from the old traditions, yet projected towards the future, so as to vast panoply of events on offer when you visit Lugano. cater equally well to first timers and returnees.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 2 The Region

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

How to get here The Lugano Region

The region and the city of Lugano can easily be reached As well as being an internationally important city with a by train, aeroplane and car. wealth of arts events and activities catering to every type of need, Lugano is set in an equally fascinating region. Lugano lies on the main motorway artery linking northern Europe to the Mediterranean and thanks to an excellent Lugano’s countless parks and botanical gardens allow network of Canton roads, it is easy to reach a wide range visitors to enjoy contact with verdant nature, just a stone’s of Alpine passes to the north of the city: Novena, San throw from the splendid Lake Lugano. The local hills and Gottardo, Lucomagno, San Bernardino, Spluga and mountains all around are famed for excursions, offering Maloia. But Lugano also lies close to , the Italian breath-taking panoramic views over the lake and the region which industrially, is amongst the most important in mountains framing it. Europe, whilst the city is particularly well connected to and , both of which are easy to reach by car or A plethora of picturesque villages, for example Carona or by train. , appeal to visitors with their narrow alleys, balconies in bloom and numerous grottos where visitors Lugano-Agno airport, just 6 km from the centre, has a can enjoy the excellent local specialities, not far from the small-scale airport infrastructure that it is very convenient city centre. Gandria can also be reached by an enjoyable to get to and more than sufficient for the needs of airline boat ride; Caprino and Gandria wine cellars are extremely companies, offering rapid embarkation times and daily popular destinations for tourists and local people alike. connections with and . Milan Malpensa and Bergamo Orio al Serio airports are also connected to On top of this, the region is dotted with paths, which can be Lugano by means of a daily shuttle bus service. enjoyed on foot or bike, allowing the energetic to explore the lush woods which make the region so special for nature The railway station, on the international Gottardo (Milan- lovers. -Zürich) artery, provides rapid connections with all the most important European destinations and can be Obviously there is no shortage of shopping opportunities: reached from the city centre either on foot or by means of not just the highly popular Via Nassa, the main a . thoroughfare in the city centre, but just a few kilometres from Lugano visitors can also enjoy the shopping centres at , easily reachable from the Lugano Sud motorway exit. In short, the Lugano area offers so much more than just the city of Lugano: the entire surrounding region is a paradise waiting to be discovered, whatever your interests.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 3 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Capriasca Malcantone

The Tesserete town, located in a sun-kissed bowel framed The grandiose Malcantone valleys extend between Lake amidst hills and mountains, makes the ideal base for Lugano, Agno Bay and the mountains separating Ticino exploring the area. Boasting a wealth of from and Lago Maggiore. The landscape is heritage, the valley is typified by enchanting landscapes, spectacular and incredibly varied, ranging from the lakeside dotted with clusters of villages which have maintained their region at 270 m, all the way up to Monte Lema, peaking at traditional, historical appearance and splendid baroque over 1600 metres and offering visitors awe-inspiring churches. panoramas and a wide range of fun activities. Over 300 kilometres of paths crisscross the Malcantone area, linking First and foremost, there is the impressive Santo Stefano up its most picturesque locations. Those seeking relaxation parish church in Tesserete, whose Romanesque church and tranquillity will certainly not be disappointed. Sports tower was built on a previous building, and which can be lovers are also amply catered for: in fact it is possible to glimpsed from far away. practice just about every type of sport in the region, including tennis, golf, horse riding, swimming, sailing and windsurfing. Sports-lovers will revel in the climb and wooded terrain as far as the eye can see interspersed by countless paths, a veritable paradise for excursionists, whether on But Malcantone is more than just sport; it is also art and foot or by mountain bike. The Tesserete sports centre also culture. The churches of Sant’Ambrogio at and offers perfect conditions for practising sports and enjoying Santo Stefano at with their Romanesque church leisure activities throughout the year. The woodland near towers and their 12th and 13th century frescoes, are real to the bathing centre is certainly worth visiting due to a jewels waiting to be discovered, as is the Curio “cultural” trail taking in the San Clemente archaeological Ethnographic Museum and the chocolate museum at area, the Torre di Redde and the San Bernardo hermitage . on a promontory near to Comano. The Santa Maria del Bigorio Gaudio convent, founded in 1535 and the first Obviously there is no shortage of restaurants and vineyards centre for Capuchin monks in , is also worth a where visitors can enjoy good local wine and traditional visit. Ticino dishes as well as the local village festivals and fetes where it is possible to discover the real essence of the Malcantone area.

Numerous railway and post bus connections every day make it quick and easy to access the region.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 4 Lugano!

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

General Information The City’s Mediaeval Core

The largest city in Ticino, Lugano is truly international, a The arcades and piazzas in the centre entice visitors to Lugano’s mediaeval core, almost all of which is place where Northern and Mediterranean cultures meet. stroll and relax, whilst the lakefront and Ciani Park pedestrianised, is the city’s pride and joy. The dense Receptive to outside influence and very welcoming, it encourage people to enjoy nature without having to move network of narrow alleyways is ideal for strolling around strikes a perfect balance between tradition and innovation, far from the centre. As of September, arts lovers will be and getting to know the beautiful, spacious piazzas with a and is always fascinating to explore. As well as being able to explore the new LAC, the new arts and culture wealth of elegant cafes and restaurants such as piazza Switzerland’s third financial hub and an important congress centre dedicated to visual arts, music and stage arts, Manzoni, piazza Dante and piazza Riforma. The municipal centre, it is also typified by a very human dimension with its founded with the aim of enhancing the range of arts and building is also of great interest; it was built in 1844 with the multitude of parks and gardens in bloom, villas and culture on offer in the city and the region. Featuring a aim of providing offices for the Canton government and in splendid churches. Modern and cosmopolitan, it offers all concert and theatre hall and museum, LAC is the region’s 1890 it became the permanent site of the Municipal the advantages of city living, yet at the same time first specially conceived arts and culture centre rather than Assembly, the Town Hall and the Administration Offices. preserving its small-town identity on the shores of the lake. a repurposed one. Lugano is also architecturally vibrant: Overlooking Piazza della Riforma and adorned with statues Built on the bay on Lake Lugano’s northern shore, the town the main exponents of the Ticino School are framing its clock, the building has an unmistakable façade. is surrounded by hills and mountains in a splendid, verdant and , the latter of which has designed many Inside, the patio is an outstanding example of neoclassic setting. Its pedestrianised ancient central area is dotted buildings in the city, such as the BSI Bankbuilding and architectural; often during the summer season cultural with museums, boutiques and restaurants and its packed Palazzo Ransila. events such as the Poestate poetry festival are organised events calendar runs all year round. The city is a great here. The LAC demarcates the new piazza dedicated to the draw for lovers of arts and culture as well as for sports Nature lovers and hikers can enjoy a splendid view over famous painter ; it overlooks the lake and people. Thanks to its generally mild climate, Lugano makes the city and the lake from the mountains all around receives visitors arriving from the city via the streets of the the ideal destination from spring onwards, a season when Lugano: from San Salvatore and Brè, not only is it possible centre. Artistically, the Santa Maria degli Angeli church is the camellias come into flower and swans swim about with to enjoy the amazing panorama, but there are also a the city’s most important; inside, visitors can admire the their cygnets in the blue waters of Lake Lugano. wealth of wonderful excursions leading to enchanting works of Bernardino Luini, Leonardo da Vinci’s chosen villages overlooking the lake such as Carona, Gandria and pupil; he worked in the church and convent between 1527 Morcote. and 1530. Commissioned by the Order of Friars Minor (Franciscans) who occupied the adjacent monastery after 1470, construction work on the church began in 1499, it was completed in 1515.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 5 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Shopping Nightlife

Shops, boutiques and shopping centres suiting every Walking up from the centre towards the station, Via Lugano comes alive in the evenings. After sunset, the possible requirement, including luxury articles, antique Cattedrale and Salita Chiattone provide yet another vibrant city offers thousands of different ways to spend an artefacts, souvenirs and crafts, not to mention the opportunity for shopping with their tiny boutiques and evening in the pursuit of fun. Nightlife starts relatively early, characteristic traditional markets lining the streets and crafts jewellery shops; the two streets join up at their apex, with an aperitif on the lakeshore or in one of the city’s piazzas and offering primarily local food products. In near to San Lorenzo Cathedral. countless establishments. After dinner you can enjoy a Lugano shopping takes on a multitude of forms in order to drink in one of the many piano bars or have fun in a cater to everybody’s tastes and budget. Lugano market makes an ideal spot to buy local produce discotheque until the small hours. Aficionados of gambling grown by small-scale farmers who sell their wares directly will enjoy Lugano Casino with its panoramic restaurant, five Via Nassa and Via Pessina, two of Lugano’s historical to the public. The flowers, fruit and vegetable market offers bars and the large hall offering roulette, table games, poker streets, comprise long rows of highly particular, refined very fresh local produce, alongside mouth-watering eggs, and so much more. shops: 270 m long and lined by old porticos, you can find cheese, salami and jams. The market is held in Piazza del jewellers, antiquarians, clothing boutiques including brands Mercato on Tuesdays and Fridays from 7.00 to 12.00. which are world renowned, alongside tiny shops where you can buy chocolate, salami and other locally produced delicacies.

Just a stone’s throw away from Via Nassa, there is Manor, a highly popular six floor department store, where you can find everything you can possibly need: cosmetics, computers, books, clothing etc.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 6 A Bit of History

The history of the Lugano region dates back to time 15 February 1798 was a chaotic day of fighting, at the end immemorial, and is connected to the Etruscan and Gaelic of which, despite initial success, the enemy was pushed civilisations, the Romans, then the and the back by the Lugano partisans. The most enlightened Franks, whilst the first documents indicating the existence members of the bourgeois took advantage of events to of Lugano can be traced back to 818 and 875. finally achieve long-sought independence for the town, buoyed by the slogan “Free and Swiss”. At the In the Middle Ages, Lugano and the other lands twelve cantons proclaimed Canton Ticino’s independence comprising what is currently Canton Ticino were involved and on 16 February the citizens erected the tree of liberty in the affairs of the nearby Lombard municipalities of in Piazza Grande. was forced to accept this Como and Milan, and the region which is now Italian development and under the 1803 speaking Switzerland saw frequent battle. sanctioned the creation of Canton Ticino as a formally sovereign, independent Republic within the reformed Swiss Confederation. The region was dominated by Milan, under the Lordship of the Viscontis, around the second half of the XIV century. It was then occupied by French Mondragon soldiers. On 29 The 19th century saw Lugano in the avant-garde, both January 1513 the French soldiers defending the castle politically and culturally; the town was extremely receptive were expelled by the Swiss. So, after over one hundred to the Italian Risorgimento and welcomed some of its years of control by the powerful Lombard city, coinciding leading members such as Giuseppe Mazzini and Carlo with the ’s loss of independence and Cattaneo. foreign invasions in Italy, the almost three hundred year period of government by the Swiss Confederates The opening up the San Gottardo railway provided a further commenced. During these years Lugano enjoyed a period catalyst for the economic growth of the city and the Canton, of relative prosperity thanks to its famous Autumn fair allowing Lugano to transform itself into today’s amazing which turned the town into one of the most important tourist destination thanks to its fantastic landscape and centres of trade between Italy and Northern Europe. position.

In this era of peace, beautiful churches and patrician palaces were built and in the 18th century there was also a printing press which bestowed great prestige on the city. The French Revolution also had a significant impact on Ticino, above all after the arrival of the French in Lombardy.

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 7 Architecture

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Taking a Look at Ticino’s Architecture I Grate Names from the Past…

Just like its gastronomy, culture and traditions, Ticino Ticino’s deep-rooted religious tradition means that the bulk architecture has been profoundly influenced by the of the major works of art present in the Canton are Canton’s geographical position: a meeting place between churches and religious monuments. Perched above the the south and the north, Ticino leans towards both mediaeval city core, the splendid San Lorenzo Cathedral is Lombardy and continental Europe across the ; from well worth a visit; it features a splendid both it has assimilated important ideas, transforming them facade: the church’s structure is Romanesque and it is into those incredible works of art that we can still admire adorned with a series of 13th century frescoes. Again in today. Boasting a wealth of waters and minerals, Ticino Lugano, Loreto church with its rococo style portico and developed subsistence agriculture and a construction Palazzo Riva in baroque style are certainly quite industry linked primarily to stone and granite. Before the remarkable. Amongst the Romanesque buildings, the year 1000, the area which currently constitutes Ticino saw churches of S.S. Pietro e Paolo in Sureggio, San Martino in the birth of the Maestros Comacini, Intelvesi and and Santo Stefano in Miglieglia are all worth a Campionesi who over the course of several centuries left visit; in the latter the late Gothic frescoes can still be an invaluable architectural and artistic heritage throughout admired. Sant’Ambrogio Church in Cademario offers the Europe, from papal to the Tsars’ Moscow and St possibility of visiting an early single nave sanctuary dating Petersburg. Amongst the many famous Ticino architects back to the 12th century, whilst the splendid church of we can mention Solari from Carona, the Gagginis from Santa Maria dei Ghirli in Campione d’Italia has preserved , , a great Bissone architect important frescoes from the fourteenth and seventeenth who worked in seventeenth century baroque Rome, Carlo centuries. The origins of the San Vitale church in Riva San Maderno from , who was also active in the Italian Vitale, a town famous for its Baptistery, the oldest Christian capital, the restorer and architect from Bissone, Stefano monument in Switzerland, date back to before the year Maderno, Baldassarre Longhera from , an 1000, to 500. Lastly, the mediaeval Sant’Ambrogio church architect who worked in 17th Century Venice and Vincenzo in with its Romanesque tower is of Vela from Ligornetto, a sculptor who took part in the Italian significant interest; it boasts a fresco from 1550 depicting Risorgimento. Ticino thus boasts an incredible number of the Last Supper, a very valuable copy of Leonardo da architectural jewels from a wide range of styles, catering to Vinci’s masterpiece. admirers of modern architecture as well as devotees of traditional architecture. Within a radius of just several dozen kilometres one can admire works of art from the past such as Casterlgrande in which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as examples of modernity such as the cylindrical Palazzo Botta in Lugano.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 8 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

… And Today’s Grat Architects

More recently, in the 20th century, a veritable internationally renowned, Ticino school of architecture came into being. The most famous name amongst the exponents of this particular style is the architect Mario Botta, originally from Mendrisiotto: his most famous works include Casa Pusterla in Morbio Superiore, Casa Bianchi in Ligornetto, Casa Robbiani in and Casa Genini in , the main offices of the BSI Bank, the Palazzo dei Cinque Continenti, the Salita dei Frati Library in the Capuchin Convent and the church which stands out on top of , with frescoes by . Following an international competition, a member of what came to be known as the “Ticino School” Ivano Gianola, designed the evocative LAC building which is not only an architectural attraction in its own right, but also a new district in the city. Many other expert architects have worked locally, including the founding member, Rino Tami, who designed the Canton Library which was built in 1940, Tita Carloni, Luigi Snozzi and . And to ensure that this tradition continues and develops, in 1996 an Academy of Architecture was set up in where “tomorrow’s architects” are trained. So Ticino offers much in the way of traditional and modern architecture, not just for those wishing to work in the field, but also for all those who are merely interested in the sector.

For anybody wishing to find out more about Ticino architecture, the free guided excursions “Lugano Yesterday and Today” and “Unexpected Classic Tour” will teach you everything there is to know about the subject

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 9 Fine Dining in Ticino Ticino cuisine – both in its most genuine, simple form, and its sophisticated, refined version, always aims to highlight traditional local produce, and is constantly striking a balance between preserving traditions and the desire to innovate. This dynamism gives rise to a very wide range of culinary delights which ranges from rustic fare in the many local grottos – for example risotto with luganighe, polenta, bollito misto, to top-end starred restaurants. An irresistible combination of traditional dishes having close ties with the local area, and culinary influences from neighbouring areas such as Piedmont, Lombardy, and regions north of the Alps. Fine gourmet creations in other words, catering to every taste and budget.

Traditional Food Grotto, A Ticino Tradition

The past which is strongly associated with local farmland A rustic environment, often in the shade of centuries-old and alpine farms has handed us down humble yet trees, with granite tables and benches making it possible to delicious dishes, similar to those from nearby Lombardy. enjoy lunch in a cool environment. The “grotto” is a Amongst the most popular dishes in Ticino’s cuisine are veritable Ticino institution patronised by locals and tourists, busecca (tripe), risotto, roast and stewed meat and fish young and old alike, the ideal spot to enjoy traditional local from the lake baked, pan-fried or marinated. And naturally, dishes: salametti, marinated fish, vitello tonnato, roast beef a huge array of cheeses including fresh or seasoned (hot or cold according to the season), cazzöla, mushrooms cheese, eaten on bigio bread or used to enrich polenta. and cheese. And to quench your thirst, a "cup” of good And finally, to end the meal, a slice of bread and a glass of Ticino Merlot or maybe a fine Barbera with lemonade. grappa or a shot of nocino, a nut-based liqueur of which only the friars are said to have the original recipe. Wine

Thanks to its mild, sunny climate, Ticino makes the ideal location for growing vines. An essential presence on Ticino tables is Merlot, which can easily hold its own against Bordeaux wines. This grape bestows a lively red, intense colour on the wine, with well-balanced tones and good body. The taste which is somewhat dry, is ideally paired with regional foods, from grilled meat to seasoned cheeses. A visit to the region’s wine cellars may also be an excellent way to discover Ticino wines, possibly accompanied by salamis and other delicacies which are typical of the area.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 10 Getting the “Ceresio”, the other, local name for Lake Lugano is the Italian version of the word, Ceresium. Some claim it derives from “cerasa”, in other words cherry, whilst others maintain it comes from “ceresium”, in other words “bluer than the sky”. A third, perhaps Most from more likely theory holds that the name comes from the Celtic “keresius”, meaning “branched”. A lake of glacial origin formed some 10,000 years ago it has a surface area of 48.7 km². Its main tributaries are the rivers, , and , whilst the the Lake river flows from the westernmost arm into Lago Maggiore, joining the two . The deepest point, at 288 metres, is in the upper section, between the Swiss and Italian border, just a few kilometres from Gandria. Well stocked with fish, Lake Lugano is not just a source of enjoyment for fishermen; in fact it is also possible to take part in many other activities, whether sport spaced or otherwise, which make it an ideal holiday venue for everybody.

A Day on the Waters of Lake Lugano Sports on the Lake

When the weather gets hot and the sun is high in the sky, Offering windsurfing, sailing, diving and water skiing, Lake there is nothing better than spending a few hours relaxing Lugano is a veritable “playground” for lovers of water on the lake. The Lake Lugano Navigation Company sports. The sailing clubs and diving clubs provide lessons provides a wide range of cruises allowing you to discover for beginners and the opportunity for adventurous new places whilst enjoying the beauty of the mountains excursions for those who are more expert, providing boats reflected in the waters. One particularly attractive of every size. And for those who prefer peace and quiet, opportunity is the boat which runs from Lugano (or canoes and kayaks are an excellent way to visit the lake Paradiso) to Gandria, stopping on the way at the Swiss shore. Customs Museum and at the Culture Museum. Gourmets can choose the evening cruise which lasts around two hours, during which a top-class evening meal is served to For Sunbathers the sound of good music. The Great Lake Tour and the Panoramic Cruise are an excellent way for anybody new to the area to discover the towns and villages on the shores Spread out along Lake Lugano shore, lidos and public of the lake, whilst the boat trip to (Italy) makes it bathing centres are extremely popular both for Ticino possible to visit the Saturday market which is very popular natives and tourists thanks to their relaxing atmosphere. with those looking for real bargains. From May to September they make the ideal place to enjoy a dip in a swimming pool or in the lake, a fresh drink or ice cream and maybe even an aperitif against the backdrop of a wonderful sunset.

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 11 Sites and Villages

In the area surrounding Lugano, scattered between the shores of Lake Lugano and the mountains all around, there are several villages which are well worth visiting. The old houses, elegant porticos, frescoed churches, picturesque neighbourhoods: each place offers the visitor splendid architecture, unforgettable panoramas and a host of traditional grottos where you can enjoy traditional local cuisine washed down by a fine Ticino Merlot. These villages are easy to reach from Lugano by car or by postbus whilst some can be reached by boat and are thus ideal destinations for fascinating, fun day trips.

Gandria Morcote

A truly unique fishing village, perched at the foot of Monte A peaceful village on the shores of Lake Lugano, main Brè, offering visitors a uniquely romantic atmosphere. activity was once fishing. Spreading out on the slopes of , Gandria can be reached both by land and from the lake it is characterised by picturesque neighbourhoods, sublime even though of course arriving at this splendid place by porticos adorning patrician houses, architectural boat is doubtless the most exciting option. monuments and lush vegetation.

The centre of the village is closed to traffic and so can be The Church, in renaissance baroque style, dominates the explored on foot, strolling around the picturesque village and can be reached via a truly monumental 404 alleyways and stopping to admire the splendid views over step staircase. The evocative terraced cemetery, clinging the lake. to the slopes of the mountain, and the Capitano Tower are also well worth visiting. In the centre of the village one of the main sites is the Church dating back to the sixth century, with its Nature lovers will enjoy a walk through the splendid sumptuous baroque interior and its late mediaeval tower. boasting lush subtropical plants with various examples of At on the shores of the lake, there is the Swiss Customs architectural styles taking the visitor back in time, through Museum. Accessible by boat, the museum enables visitors historical eras spanning ancient Egypt, the Middle East to discover the fascinating story of smugglers and guards and the . who in the past vied to get the better of each other, employing ingenuity and resourcefulness. Below the elegant porticos on the shores of the lake there are several souvenir shops selling crafts as well as bars Along the ath, at , there are several grottos overlooking the and restaurants where you can have a bite to eat just a lake which can only be reached either by boat or on foot short walk from the lake. and where typical Ticino dishes can be enjoyed.

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 12 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Brè Carona Caslano

Perched on the slopes of Monte Brè, this village can be Nestled in a lovely position, 602 m above sea level, the The lakeside town of, near to Lugano, is one of the most reached from the top along a shady path, through a village of Carona is halfway between the top of Monte San important in the Malcantone region. Peninsularshaped, the splendid wood, in just 20 minutes. The village has Salvatore and Monte Arbostora. A picturesque old village, towers over the village and thanks to its geological, fauna preserved the atmosphere of an ancient Ticino rural village it can lay claim to an important group of architects, and botanical characteristics, this area of great natural and can boast plenty of artistic heritage. In fact artists such sculptures, plasterers and stonemasons who left important interest is protected by the Swiss Confederation. The area as Pasquale Gilardi (1885-1934), Wilhelm Schmid (1892- witness to their art, decorating many churches and around Caslano is crisscrossed with panoramic paths 1971) and Josef Birò (1887-1975) lived and worked in the houses. The mediaeval core of the village is typified by taking in mountains and the lake and in the residential core lovely village and left examples of their work to posterity. narrow streets, delicious tiny piazzas and aristocratic, of the village there are plenty of opportunities to admire Setting off from the Piazza in front of the church, visitors expertly decorated, bright coloured houses. The parish beautiful religious monuments and traditional buildings. can follow an artistic heritage trail, which is of great interest, church of San Giorgio, with its sumptuous three nave whilst the Wilhelm Schmid Museum hosts an important interior, should be visited, but the other four chapels dotted Museum lovers can visit the fishing museum, one of three collection of works by the only Swiss painter who was an around the village are just as impressive. In particular, the such museums in Switzerland, an exhibition of cameras exponent of Nordic magic realism. very special Madonna d’Ongero Sanctuary, perched on from the foundation and the Chocolate Museum, which is Carona hill, in the shade of beech and chestnut trees is extremely popular with sweet-toothed visitors, both young Lovers of art can obviously also count on the presence of well worth a visit. and old alike. grottos and restaurants with panoramic terraces offering breath-taking views over lake Lugano and the surrounding Carona is not just art and architecture; the village also has Sports lovers are also in their element: in and roundabouts, mountains. so much to offer lovers of nature and sports. The public they can practice just about every type of sports activity, swimming pool set in an amazing position is the village’s from tennis to golf, horse riding to swimming, sailing to pride and joy, but there are also long trails for runners, two windsurfing. tennis courts, excellent mountain bike trails and others suitable for walkers.

San Grato gardens are a veritable haven of nature featuring an extraordinary collection of azaleas and rhododendrons amongst which visitors can stroll; the gardens also offer unique views over Lugano Lake and the mountains all around, as well as a restaurant for grabbing a bite to eat and a playground for children.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 13 Culture

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura

LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura is the new Arts Centre A new 1,000 seats concert and theatre hall, entirely wood- dedicated to the visual arts, music and the performing arts, panelled and fitted with a special modular and removable which promises to become one of Switzerland’s most acoustic shell, is ready for a varied programme of important cultural institutions, with the aim of promoting a performances and concerts. The LAC will be the main wide range of art and establishing Lugano as a cultural location for LuganoInScena and LuganoMusica (the new crossroads between northern and southern Europe. Born name of Lugano Festival) seasons as well as a home for as a location for sharing and supporting the the Compagnia Finzi Pasca and the Orchestra della interdisciplinarity, the LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura Svizzera italiana. It will also be involved with the seasonal immediately established its open approach to encounters concerts planned by Radiotelevisione Svizzera. Visitors regarding art, artists and the collective thanks to its striking step into a large hall, designed to be a massive window architectural structure. that immediately minimizes the boundary between inside and outside. The Hall overlooks the new Piazza Bernardino The building, which overlooks the lake, provide space for a Luini, the biggest square of Lugano, and it opens onto the rich programme of exhibitions, events, concerts and lake, offering a stunning view. theatrical and dance performances, along with a variety of cultural initiatives and a packed programme of activities for The structure is completed by a few other important young people and families. venues, such as the Teatrostudio, various multi-use rooms, the atelier and the Agorà. The spaces within the ancient The LAC is also home to the newly-created Museo d’arte Franciscan monastery have been restored as for the new della Svizzera italiana, formed by the merging between the public park, that now belongs to the LAC. The car park Museo Cantonale d’Arte and the Museo d’Arte Lugano. beneath the Piazza Luini is enriched by site-specific Located over three floors, the gallery hold a permanent installations by Swiss artist Felice Varini. exhibition of Lugano and Cantone Ticino art collection, temporary exhibitions and site specific installations.

LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura

Piazza Bernardino Luini 6, CP 5129, CH-6901 Lugano +41 (0)58 866 42 00

www.luganolac.ch [email protected]

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 14 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Museo d’arte della Svizzera italiana

The Museo d’arte della Svizzera italiana, Lugano is the The new LAC exhibition site, located over three floors, result of the merging between the Museo Cantonale d’Arte hosts on a floor the permanent exhibition whilst the other and the Museo d’Arte Lugano. It is based in the LAC and in floors are devoted to temporary exhibitions, designed to Palazzo Reali, the current site of the Museo Cantonale explore modern and contemporary art. Thanks to these d’Arte. The Museum brings together the City of Lugano and spaces and specific designed equipment, conceived to the Canton Ticino’s collections, which are complementary: handle the art works in line with the most modern safety in fact they cover a period of time that goes from ancient and conservation standards, the museum can house times until this day, with a particular attention payed to the projects so far extremely hard to organise. The striking Swiss and Italian art scenes in the 19th and in the 20th architectural structure provides the opportunity to analyse centuries, making significant inroads into the international aspects of the 20th century and contemporary art, where context. In Palazzo Reali art works will be presented in a the boundaries between the various disciplines are range that goes from early 15th to the middle of the 20th blurred. century, with close attention payed to the relationship with the local area.

Venue MASILugano LAC Venue MASILugano Palazzo Reali Piazza Bernardino Luini 6, Via Canova 10, CP 5129, CH-6901 Lugano 6900 Lugano

+41 (0)58 866 42 30 +41 (0)91 815 79 71 www.masilugano.ch www.masilugano.ch [email protected] [email protected]

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 15 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Herman Hesse Museum

Situated in the Camuzzi Tower, this small yet important In 1931 he relocated with his wife to Casa Rossa, where he Museum is dedicated to the life of the famous writer who loved growing vegetables and flowers and wrote “The spent the last 43 years of his life in this area. In 1919 Glass Bead Game”, which won him the Nobel Prize for rented a simple flat in Casa Camuzzi, a literature in 1946. His ties to Ticino and its inhabitants are prominent work by the Ticino architects engaged in 19th self-evident from the stories written by this great man. The century St Petersburg. After a period of crisis due to association with Hesse was renewed on 2 July 1977 with separation from his family and the ensuing evils of the First the opening of the museum in his honour. A cultural World War, in Lugano, Hesse finally found the peace and meeting place, the museum features a cinema where inspiration he needed in order to resume his writing; he documentaries in Italian, German, English and French are also discovered painting as a source of calm and inner screened, the books on display at the entrance and in the serenity. In fact it was in Casa Camuzzi that Hesse wrote garden are available to those wishing to read them and some of his masterpieces such as “Siddharta”, “Narcissus there is also a signposted “In the footsteps of Hermann and Goldmund” and “Steppenwolf” and where he Hesse” trail leading to a number of vantage points on the composed many poems and painted several watercolours. Collina D’oro which the writer particularly loved. The route takes in both the outskirts and the centre of , and along the way visitors will see the houses where he lived, finally culminating in the village cemetery.

Herman Hesse Museum Torre Camuzzi 6926 Montagnola

www.hessemontagnola.ch [email protected]

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 16 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Archivio storico della Città di Lugano Museum of Cultures Museum of Fishing

Located in the place where lived in exile, The Museum of Cultures changes its seat ten years after This special Museum houses a fascinating exhibition the Archivio storico features a vast collection of paper its relaunching and the realisation of 81 temporary which takes visitors back into time, starting out from the art manuscripts, iconographic prints, photos, books and exhibitions and 62 publications. The Library and the of fishing in prehistoric times and travelling all the way to periodicals. They also include a permanent exhibition Documentation center however are open during the the present day, focusing on various thematic areas such dedicated to the Latvian poets (1865-1929) and preparations for the move. Current events and seminaries as boatbuilding, the fish trade, manufacturing of fishing Aspazija (1869-1943) who lived in exile in from are updated on the Museum's website. nets and the fish species present in Ticino. Opened in 1906 to 1920. The collection is ordered so as to distinguish 1993, it has a number of real gems: several photographs between the various archives: the Patrician archive, the bearing witness to life on the lake and rivers at the Municipal one, the archive of the Santa Maria Hospital, of beginning of the last century, documenting the people and the district law-court, the former Brè-Aldesago and traditions illustrating the history of fishing in Ticino. It is Castagnola Municipality and, lastly, donated private also possible to admire seven large display cases archives. The Historical archives comprise 127 parchments, containing ancient relics: presses, nets and fishing rods. 1436 manuscripts in book form and approximately 1500 The Museum also houses a donation by Riccardo Allisi folders containing over 300,000 individual documents. The from Ascona, a professional fisherman who has now iconographic section numbers tens of thousands of items retired, comprising a large piece of equipment for making and comprises photos, etchings, maps, plans and several fishing lures out of wood and metal; the fish farming paintings and drawings. Of particular interest are the section has been entirely revamped in order to render the collection of the Lugano photographer Vincenzo Vicari contents of the Museum more educational, illustrating the (1911-2007), comprising over 100,000 photos, and works various stages of the embryonic development of trout up to by the artist Alfredo Veronesi (1880-1961). the final stage. In the room set aside for the Tresa fishponds, a range of items have been restored. Finally, we should point out that amongst the stuffed and mounted fish on display, there is a magnificent 9 ½ kg pike.

Archivio storico della Città di Lugano Heleneum Museo della pesca Casa Cattaneo Via Cortivo 24-28 Via Meriggi 32, 6976 Lugano-Castagnola 6976 Castagnola 6987 Caslano

+41 (0)58 866 68 50 www.mcl.lugano.ch www.museodellapesca.ch www.archiviostoricolugano.ch [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 17 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Customs Museum Natural History Museum

A faithful reproduction of a late 19th century border guard The Natural History Museum examines, documents, studies post, the Customs Museum bears witness to an activity and provides information on Ticino’s nature. The Museum which conjures up images of an era bristling with danger, carries out regular research, manages over half a million great toil and enormous ingenuity on the part of both artefacts (minerals, rocks, fossils, animals, plants and fungi) smugglers and guards. For decades, smuggling allowed and also has a specialised library. It serves as an important people in economically deprived areas to make ends reference resources for citizens, schools, scientific meet. The building that houses the Museum is near institutes, associations, tourists and public authorities. The Gandria and can be reached by means of a short, permanent exhibition (1100 m²) provides an overview of the atmospheric boat trip. In fact it is located on the lake various natural aspects of the region: large-scale shore, on the border between Switzerland and Italy in an environmental reconstructions (dioramas) show the most area of lush vegetation. The reproduction of the period important animals and plants, whilst several sections focus when smuggling was rife has been achieved through a on rocks, minerals and fossils, amongst which the famous large exhibition area spread over three floors of the reptiles. Alongside the permanent Museum. On the ground floor the old customs post has exhibition, the Institute also organises temporary been rebuilt just as it was in 1904. There are many exhibitions, courses and conferences, produces customs documents, a diary, coins dating back to the publications and educational material, and partners with period, scales and numerous measuring devices. On the other institutions to create theme based trails. first floor there is an explanation of how the confederal structure evolved from the past all the way up to the present day; a monument commemorates border guards who died in the line of duty. On the second floor there is a collection of weapons from Italy, France, Great Britain and the which were seized from partisans, refugees or escapees whilst trying to cross the Swiss border illegally. In addition there is a fascinating exhibition of instruments and equipment used by smugglers and poachers, as well as documentation showing the most sophisticated tricks employed for circumventing customs Museo di storia naturale laws. Viale Cattaneo 4 6900 Lugano Museo delle Dogane Svizzero Cantine di Gandria www.ti.ch/mcsn 6978 Gandria [email protected]

www.zollmuseum.ch [email protected] Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 18 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Wilhelm-Schmidt Museum Spazio -1. Collezione Giancarlo e Danna Olgiati

Das Wilhelm-Schmid-Museum in Brè sopra Lugano bietet Spazio – 1 is an exhibition space that hosts the Collezione In 1985 he was joined by his wife, Danna, an Italian gallery die einmalige Gelegenheit, die Meisterwerke eines Giancarlo e Danna Olgiati of contemporary art, loaned to owner specialised in the Futurist movement. The Collection aussergewöhnlichen Künstlers der schweizerischen the city of Lugano in 2012. Situated in the basement of the comprises at the moment more than 500 art works: Kunstbewegung des 20. Jahrhunderts zu bewundern. Central Park building opposite the LAC, the space was paintings, sculptures, drawings, photos, installations and Wilhelm Schmid (1892-1971), gebürtig aus dem Kanton donated to the city by Eligio Boni, Erica Boni, Giuseppina videos, chiefly large format works which, by their nature, Aargau, ist einer der bedeutendsten Vertreter der Filippini, Immobiliare Park Lugano SA and restructured by need to be organised in museum type halls, that explore Bewegungen „Neue Sachlichkeit“ und „Magischer the architect Ivano Gianola, thanks to the support of the international arts from the beginning of the 20th century up Realismus“ sowie einziger Schweizer, der diesen Fondazione Caccia. Like a Schaulager, Spazio – 1 opens to today, focusing particularly on Italian and French art and Kunstbewegungen angehörte. Kurz vor dem Zweiten to the public periodically, in spring and autumn, to display on crucial moments such as Futurism, Spazialismo, Weltkrieg zog er nach Brè sopra Lugano und verbrachte exhibitions from the Collection as well as temporary Nouveau Réalisme and Arte Povera. dort den Rest seines Lebens. Das Museum, das sich in exhibitions. The Collection was created in the early 1960s seinem Wohnhaus befindet, trägt noch heute seine when the young lawyer Giancarlo Olgiati started his Handschrift. Dort werden in der Tat noch ein Teil der adventure in the world of contemporary art. ursprünglichen Einrichtung und seine umfassende Büchersammlung aufbewahrt. Auch wird dort eine grosse Auswahl der Werke von Schmid ausgestellt, beginnend von den Meisterwerken der Bewegung „Neue Sachlichkeit“ der 20er und 30er Jahre bis hin zu den prächtigen Ansichten des Dorfs Brè und den angrenzenden Gebieten. Letztere ermöglichen den Besuchern, von der riesigen Terrasse des Museums aus die herrliche Landschaft durch die Augen des Künstlers zu bewundern und so die Essenz seines Kunstwerks im Ganzen zu erfassen. Das Museum öffnet seine Pforten ausschliesslich auf Anfrage. Für Gruppen auf Anfrage geöffnet.

Museo Wilhelm Schmidt Spazio -1 Contrada Prò 22 Lungolago, Riva Caccia 1 6979 Brè sopra Lugano CH – 6900 Lugano

+41 (0) 58 866 69 10 +41 (0)58 866 42 30 [email protected] www.collezioneolgiati.ch [email protected]

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 19 Meeting and Business

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Palazzo dei Congressi Villa Ciani Ex-Asilo Ciani

Palazzo dei Congressi Lugano’s elegant Convention Centre is centrally located, Between 1840 and 1843, Villa Ciani, according to the will The Ciani building is located in the centre of Lugano, on Piazza Indipendenza 4 close to the heart of the city’s financial and recreational of the brothers Giacomo and Filippo Ciani, was the site of Viale Cattaneo. It is an events location exclusively run by 6900 Lugano facilities and right next to the splendid municipal park, important exhibitions which were essential testimony of the Palazzo dei Congressi. The historic building dates back Parco Ciani and the lakeshore. The centre is located within local art history, focusing especially on the second half of to the late nineteenth century and is located opposite www.luganoconventions.ch easy walking distance of many hotels, shops and the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century. Lugano's Ciani Park with its century-old trees. The structure [email protected] attractions. Ideal for all kinds of events, it is equipped with Inside the Villa there was also one of the most prestigious has 10 small rooms that vary in size between 10 and 60 the most modern technology and fully air-conditioned. An museums in Canton Ticino. Nowadays the Villa can be square metres. The central ground floor area houses a 280 amphitheatre for 1,130 persons with a fixed stage, break- booked on an exclusive basis for conference events as it m2 patio that is ideal for any type of event thanks to a out rooms with dividing walls, a banquet room for 850 has 30 rooms of different sizes, all interlinked; in addition unique pyramid-shaped metal and glass skylight, typical persons and a large exhibition area (1,350 + 830 m²) offer there is a direct connection with the main lobby of the period arches and beautiful parquet floor. The patio is the ideal location for meetings, workshops, seminars, Palazzo Congressi. surrounded by a series of rooms that are suitable for conventions, banquets, exhibitions and shows. About 250 meetings, exhibitions and conferences. parking spaces are available directly in front of the Convention Centre. One of the most appealing aspects of the Convention Centre Lugano is its uncluttered hallways, wide stairways and outside terraces, spacious yet people- friendly in scale and ideal for networking between sessions.

Villa Ciani Viale Cattaneo Ex-Asilo Ciani 6900 Lugano Viale Cattaneo 6900 Lugano http://www.luganoconventions.com/it/89/ex-asilo- ciani.aspx www.luganoconventions.com/it/89/ex-asilo-ciani.aspx [email protected] [email protected]

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 20 LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the The Theatre Hall: Theatre set designs and city of Lugano and the surrounding area. Building major orchestras

The new LAC Lugano Arts and Culture centre which now The Theatre Hall was designed with a view to recreating characterises piazza Bernardino Luini, was built on the site the wonderful atmosphere of 19th-century theatres. Clad of the old Palace hotel; it overlooks the waters of Lake entirely in pear wood, with one of the highest theatre Lugano. From the piazza, you can go in any one of several curtains in Europe, the hall can accommodate a thousand directions: you can enter LAC to get to the museum or the guests for plays or concerts and up to 70 musicians. The Theatre Hall or you can cross internal courtyards and stroll architect, Ivano Gianola, worked closely with Müller BBM, a through the new park close to the arts and culture centre. leader in the field of engineering, to create the perfect You can also reach the city's mediaeval heart on foot. blend of architectural aesthetics and acoustic quality, Enter LAC and the first thing you see is the hall, the core guaranteed by its modular, removable acoustic shell, its of the arts centre, where you’ll find the ticket office, the volume, the tilt of the seating area, the balcony and the bookshop and a cafe. The impressive glass structure, with decorations. All these are contributory factors in ensuring an area of 650 m² was designed as a giant window to blur that the Theatre Hall makes the ideal venue for organising the boundary between indoors and outdoors. Just like the any type of event, including symphony concerts, jazz road and piazza, the ground floor of the arts and culture concerts, opera and comic opera, dance and prose theatre. centre was designed to make it fully accessible. This The main organisations operating locally, such as decision was taken by the architect, Ivano Gianola, in an LuganoInScena, LuganoMusica, the Ticino Orchestra, the attempt to eliminate the separation between physical Finzi Pasca Company and part of the RSI concert season spaces. It is an invitation to live LAC as an everyday are expected to contribute and enrich the variety of experience. Given its architectural configuration, the arts theatrical and musical performances on offer. and culture centre lends itself to the organisation of Thanks to these special characteristics and qualities, the exhibitions, concerts and shows in the MASILugano rooms arts and culture centre's Theatre Hall provides and in the Theatre Hall rooms, whilst meetings and LuganoInScena and the local theatre company, Daniele conferences can be held in the multipurpose rooms. Finzi Pasca, with a fixed residence, where they can premier Together with a rich events calendar, the arts and culture their productions for the people of Ticino. Starting this year centre has devised LAC edu, a cultural mediation and making the most of its multi-purpose, top-notch hall, programme. Organised into a number of cycles of events, Lugano will also create and produce ideas and events, its goal is to introduce the general public to the various initiating more wide-ranging, important partnerships with arts through dialogue. Conceived for children, young the various national and European theatrical and musical people, families and adults, this programme offers a range organisations. LAC's aim is to take advantage of these of educational activities inspired by creativity and multipurpose facilities and progress from merely staging interaction, such as didactic laboratories, workshops, productions to become a driving force, mounting its own interdisciplinary programmes and so much more. productions which are accessible to everybody and LAC is not just a Museum or Theatre Hall, but, above all, a interacting with international culture. dynamic venue encouraging people to share, experiment and create. Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 21 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Museo d’arte della Svizzera italiana - Agorà, teatrostudio and multi-purpose MASILugano Halls

The Ticino Art Museum came about through the In addition to the Theatre Hall and the Museum, the merger of the Canton Art Museum with Lugano's Art arts and culture centre boasts other important Museum. Now housed in LAC and the Royal Palace spaces which are the Agorà, Teatrostudio, four (the long-term home of the Canton Art Museum), the multipurpose rooms and a number of conference aim is to foster dialogue between these two rooms in the old convent. Perfect for organising exhibition centres. In fact, visitors can reach the LAC open-air events, the Agorà is an amphitheatre site from the entrance foyer; the exhibition rooms featuring tiers of steps. It is located on the second extend along the new piazza, parallel to the former level of the hall. Access to the Teatrostudio is from Palace's facade, culminating in an acute angle the upper floor. It is ideal for small-scale overlooking the lake. From the large expanse of performances or as a rehearsal room for plays and glass, you can look out over Lake Lugano and the concerts. The multipurpose rooms have been landscape all around. Spread over three floors, with created and equipped for organising meetings, a total of 2500 m², one floor will house the conferences and events. permanent collection, whilst the remaining two floors will be dedicated to temporary exhibitions. The exhibition spaces are simple, white, flexible and awash with light. They are devised to encourage silence and reflection, thereby giving greater prominence to the works of art on display. The features of the rooms will also make it possible to organise ambitious projects which were unthinkable in the museums hitherto available, providing visitors with a high-quality experience.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 22 Eventi

Lugano. A city for every season. A city with a very human dimension, offering plenty of cultural, sports and gastronomic events throughout the year to help young and old alike have fun, reflect and learn. The range of cultural events on offer by the city involves every sphere of entertainment, covering a range of events which is incredibly diverse. Small markets, concerts, food and drink, theatre: every month Lugano offers new and different ways to explore and “live” the city. But this is not everything: all the events taking place on public land in Lugano are absolutely free, how can one possibly resist an offer like that?

LuganoInScena LuganoMusica

The show season of the City of Lugano. It proposes a The musical season is dedicated mainly to classical music programme that ranges from legit to contemporary theatre, but it is open to other art forms. It hosts the biggest from national and international dance to music; it hosts the symphony orchestras and it allows them to play their own biggest interpreters and the masters of theatre. From musical repertoire maintaining their own point of view. The September 2015, LuganoInScena performances will be program extended throughout a year is well-structured in held at the LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura. The versatility and different cycles. It offers recitals, chamber music concerts, the technical stagecraft features of the new theatre hall a cycle dedicated to the new generation of interpreters and allow LuganoInScena to host just about any type of many contemporary types of music. It also offers a space spectacle: prose theatre, contemporary dance and the for music videos and movies. Project - classics, enabling the audience to finally enjoy the major training centre for ensemble that reunites well-known artists Swiss and international companies, masters of the stage, together with young talents pulled alongside the pianist and major productions and concerts with the biggest light protagonist Martha Argerich. A personality that is by now music performers. With the inauguration of the LAC, identified with the City of Lugano. LuganoInScena becomes a platform designed to put into practice new ideas, producing own theatre pieces with www.luganomusica.ch outstanding local and international partners. Moreover it offers the possibility to experiment through workshops with directors, choreographers and actors and the possibility to meet the greatest companies and season protagonists. It also offers workshops for schools (LAC edu) and interdisciplinary themed tours.

www.luganoinscena.ch

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area. Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 23 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Easter in the City Estival Jazz Longlake Festival

Easter marks the arrival of spring and encourages us all to Every summer the centre of Lugano turns into the most In the summer of 2011, Lugano Lakefront was the spend the first sunny days outdoors. This is why “Easter in prestigious musical outdoor musical concert hall in Europe. backdrop for the first edition of a cultural festival which over the City” turns the centre of Lugano into an enormous Thanks to the support of many organisations and the years has achieved incredible success. The Longlake “stage” where the city’s main piazzas provide the backdrop individuals, it is always free and unfolds over the course of Festival is back again with a new edition and over 200 to an irresistible programme of events ranging from the two weekends, partly in Piazza della Riforma in Lugano events which are set to energise the parks, piazzas and opportunity to taste traditional products – cheeses, salami, and partly in the Piazza alla Valle in Mendrisio, in a setting streets throughout the city, every day of the week. wine – to the display of craft items for sale at around 100 designed by the famous Ticino architect, Mario Botta. The Entertainment, theatre, dance, music and fun for children, stalls in Piazza Riforma, via Nassa, Piazza Dante, via stars on the stage are some of the leading names in jazz, Longlake Festival offers a packed, diverse programme Pessina and via Soave. The “Rabbit Hole” in Piazza della but also other musical genres: Estival Jazz is an spanning pop music, cabaret, theatre and the cinema. And Riforma is devoted to children, with face painting, egg unmissable event which draws thousands of music fans, much more besides: the festival pays tribute to street artists painting, henna tattoos and a play bus. Various street experts and other visitors to our impressive Lake Lugano with quartets of folk musicians, puppet shows, magic and performers complete the picture: “Easter in the City” setting. so much more. Important names in international music are involves the whole family, friends, gourmets and lovers of set to perform on the stage in Piazza Manzoni: Irish folk, shopping. www.estivaljazz.ch hip-hop, and pizzica from Salento, everything is absolutely free. Obviously there will also be stands where snacks or www.luganoturismo.ch beer on tap can be bought to celebrate to the musical rhythms under the stars. Ceresio Estate www.longlake.ch

From July to September, sixteen unmissable events for lovers of classical music: sixteen free concerts, performed in the region’s most beautiful churches and public halls amongst 17th century frescoes and splendid views over Lake Lugano. The range of music on offer is very wide and spans early music to contemporary music, taking in both young emerging and established acts. Montagnola, , Bissone and Caslano are just some of the towns and villages involved in this wonderful, sophisticated musical event which sets out to reveal not just new genres and melodies, but also exquisite places overlooking the lake and the mountains.

www.luganoturismo.ch

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 24 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

National Holiday Autumn Festival Christmas in the Square

Every year when December approaches, Lugano puts on 1 August, a Swiss national holiday, during the day there are Don’t let the first cold winds of autumn get you down. In Lugano there is plenty to celebrate even after the end of its magic cloak and turns into a winter paradise where the plenty of opportunities to reflect on the role played by the scent of mulled wine hangs heavy in the air and stalls Swiss Confederation over the last few centuries, whilst the summer. In early October the city celebrates autumns flavours and colours with a festival which bids farewell to providing great opportunities for unique, original Christmas evening ends with a spectacular firework display. The gifts, alternate with other stands selling wintry delicacies commemorative ceremonies are absolutely unmissable and summer and joyfully greets the arrival of the cooler season typified by polenta, wild game and the grape harvest. To such as stuffed pretzels, grilled sausage, polenta, raclette range from historical memories to speeches, including the and so much more. But that’s not all. Young and old alike procession organised by all the area’s citizens and sports the sound of traditional folk music visitors can enjoy stew, braised meat, risotto, minestrone and a whole host of can show off their silky skating skills on the ice rink which is associations. The evening finishes on a high note with a assembled in Piazza Manzoni every year, just a stone’s barbecue and fireworks which, reflected in the waters of the other Ticino specialities, all washed down with a fine local Merlot. Obviously there are plenty of stalls where you can throw away from the lake. One particular event really lake, will leave even the most blasé spectators should not be missed: the lighting of the in flabbergasted. buy local food and drink, as well as crafts, gifts, family entertainment and so much more. Piazza Riforma, aided by Father Christmas in person, and followed by a hot chocolate drink to assuage your hunger www.luganoturismo.ch www.luganoturismo.ch and inaugurate the Christmas season. December in Lugano is animated by a plethora of events for toddlers, Blues to Bop young people and adults alike. For children there are readings of fairy tales and workshops where they can learn At the end of August Lugano, turns into a great open-air to create Christmas gifts using their own hands, whilst jazz theatre offering 40 hours of free concerts on four different aficionados can slake their thirst for music with Christmas stages. Piazza della Riforma, Piazza Cioccaro, Piazza Jazz, jazz concerts and gospel music offered for free by the Dante and Piazzetta San Rocco are set to play host to Via Nassa and Lugano centre tradespeople. Once some 50 musicians and a total of 40 concerts which, every Christmas is over, celebrations continue. Tradition has it year, guaranteed to send blues fans into raptures. that the people of Lugano meet in Piazza Riforma on New Thousands of people can find good music to listen to and Year’s Eve in order to celebrate the new year to the sound wonderful entertainment in striking venues, varying from of the top DJs and the inevitable countdown to toast the the intimate Piazzetta San Rocco to the atmospheric New Year at midnight. On the first day of the New Year, it is Piazza della Riforma which is more suited to special not wise to stay too long in bed. In fact at 10.45 the occasions. There is nothing like “Blues to bop” anywhere procession sets off from Piazza Riforma to the Palazzo dei else in Europe and, year after year, enthusiasm for this Congressi conference centre, culminating in a drink offered event grows, not only amongst performers, but also the by the of Lugano and the city’s entire population. public. Given the event’s striking success, “Blues to Bop” has recently expanded, including stages in Morcote, www.nataleinpiazza.ch Tesserete and Sessa.

www.bluestobop.ch

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 25 Monte Brè

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

The Funicular Street Art Excursions

Running since 1912, the Brè funicular leaves from The village of Brè has retained its original characteristics Monte Brè offers countless opportunities for walkers Cassarate and in just 15 minutes whisks visitors up to the as an ancient Ticino village nestled on a hill in the ranging from easy hikes suitable for the entire family to summit, at 933 m. On top of the mountain there are countryside. It also boasts great artistic heritage. In fact more challenging walks for the more experienced. From endless leisure opportunities: the area features barbecue artists such as Pasquale Gilardi (1885-1934), Wilhelm Brè a path leads down towards Gandria where the Olive facilities where visitors can cook lunch or otherwise they Schmid (1892-1971) and Josef Birò (1887-1975) lived in Trail starts. Designed by the “Friends of the Olive” it is can rest and relax in the shade, whilst for the more active, this delightful village and left examples of their art. Setting signposted in red and leads from Gandria to San this is the starting point for walks and excursions. The view out from the piazza in front of the church you can follow a Domenico, where it splits into two: the first runs West and is unsurpassed: from Monte Brè the view extends all the remarkable artistic trial whilst the Wilhelm Schmid Museum allows walkers to reach the former Castagnola town hall by way to Monte Rosa, the Bernese Alps and Valais. houses an important collection of works by the only Swiss climbing along Viottolo delle Agavi, the second one climbs exponent of Nordic magic realism. Art lovers will obviously through the Olive Park, arrives at the Flower Trail and joins The Restaurant enjoy the various grottos and restaurants with panoramic up with the first path. The entire area is characterised by terraces offering breath-taking views over Lake Lugano the remains of old olive groves and 18 information boards and the mountains all around. explain the history, botany and cultivation of olive trees as Those who prefer not to bring a picnic can choose to eat in well as providing information on olives and olive oil. With a one of the two restaurants at the top of Monte Brè: the height difference of 85 m, the walk does not require Osteria Funicolare and the Ristorante Vetta. From March to particular effort and can be covered in approximately 2 October the Osteria offers the opportunity to purchase a hours. The Gandria Nature and Archaeology Trail allows combined “ride + lunch” ticket which includes in the price walkers to come into close contact with nature and the the funicular and the daily menu (drinks not included) for 33 area’s history. Lengthier and more challenging than the CHF. Thanks to the fact that the funicular is open in the Olive Trail, it is 11 km long, has a height difference of evenings during the summer months, visitors can dine on approximately 500 m and can be completed in four or five top of the mountain, enjoying a truly unique, memorable hours. Along the path there are 15 “stations” allowing you view. to observe the environmental characteristics of the area as well as the wonderful views.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 26 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Mountain Bike Guided Tours

Thanks to the generosity of the Swiss Touring Club, Ticino Every Friday afternoon between June and October, the section, Monte Brè now offers a remarkable, practical Lugano Tourism Office offers the opportunity of taking part attraction: 30 mountain bikes can be rented by anyone in guided tours, free of charge, to discover Monte Brè. The wishing to go on a bike ride. The easy route which takes meeting place is at the central Embarkation Point in about half an hour, sets out from the funicular’s arrival Lugano where the boat to leaves from. After the pleasant station on top of the mountain and descends towards the trip on the waters of Lake Lugano, you continue in the village of Brè, before continuing along the Canton Road funicular to the top of the mountain from where you can towards Lugano, arriving at Suvigliana. The enjoy the views over the lake and Monte Rosa, before medium/difficult one, after Brè, continues along a steep, continuing on foot to the village of Brè, where the old narrow road amidst splendid beach forests. Once Alpe stone houses and the village’s artistic heritage can be Bolla has been reached you can eat in a typical grotto, admired. as well as the Schmid Museum, the church and before descending towards and and the cemetery. The return trip runs from , again by boat, finally climbing to Suvigliana (around three and a half arriving at the Central Embarkation Point. hours). www.montebre.ch

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 27 Monte Tamaro

Close to the city, Mount Tamaro offers a wide array of open-air fun for everyone, including sports lovers. With a toboggan run, mountain bike trails, the adventure park and hiking opportunities, the Tamaro area makes the ideal spot for a great day out in the country.

How to Get There Adventure Park

Just 15 km from Lugano, the Monte Tamaro cable car can A treetop adventure course suspended between ancient easily be reached by car, taking the Rivera exit from the beech trees, at the intermediate cable-car station. The park A2 or by train, getting off at Rivera- station. is structured into three routes of varying difficulty, for Running between 8.30 and 4.30, the cable car climbs children (and adults) of any age. The easiest, accessible to smoothly to 1530 m whence visitors can start exploring the children between the ages of four and six comprises nine mountain. platforms where children can practice under the supervision of a family member. For those between the ages of seven and eleven there is the Green Route, where young Mario Bottle’s Church acrobats can practice their balancing skills, again under the watchful eye of an adult. The Big Route, for those older than nine, makes the ideal spot for would-be Indiana Jones The Santa Maria degli Angeli Church, designed by the wishing to show their courage by negotiating from one tree world-famous architect, Mario Botta, is a marvel of to the next, walking on rope bridges and overcoming their contemporary architecture. Built between 1992 and 1996, fear of heights (as always of course, in maximum safety). in porphyry, it is located on the crest of a slope and so offers stunning panoramic views. The interior is adorned with paintings by Enzo Cucchi, representing 22 litanies by Sliding at Maximum Speed the Capuchin friar, Giovanni Pozzi.

The Tamaro toboggan run, 800 metres long and with a vertical drop of 80 metres, is a not to be missed experience for speed lovers. A thrilling ride down which is bound to entertain young and old alike against the fabulous backdrop of Alpe Foppa.

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area. Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 28 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

The Longest Zip Wire in Switzerland Have a Bite to Eat at the Top

A thrilling flight, over 400 metres long, attached to a cable If all this physical activity makes you a bit peckish, the self- by means of a harness and a pulley… what more can you service Alpe Foppa Restaurant accommodating 400, is just ask for? Hurling yourself downhill at over 60 km/hour is an the ticket. Featuring a snack bar, a sun terrace with lounger experience which anyone aged nine and over can try. All rental and a playground for children, it makes the perfect you need is a little courage! But don’t worry. On arrival spot for getting your breath back between one adventure there is a safe automatic braking system. and the next. The restaurant serves traditional Ticino fare with mouth-watering meals for young and old alike.

A Thrilling Ride Splash & SPA Tamaro Lovers of mountain bikes can get their thrills at Tamaro. Bring your bike and have fun on the two classic routes, the The new, innovative, one-of-a-kind attraction is the very Downhill track running from Alpe Foppa, arriving at the first waterpark with an area of over 10,000 m² devoted to intermediate station and the Freeride track from the leisure and well-being, offering aquatic fun, a spa and intermediate station to Rivera. wellness treatments inside a single structure. Families, adults, young people and children can enjoy a wide range of attractions which will surely satisfy their every need.

www.montetamaro.ch www.splashespa.ch

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 29

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Everybody Aboard the Funicular Museum Excursions

From March to November you can go from Paradiso all the Open from Wednesday to Sunday, the San Salvatore San Salvatore is not just food and drink and culture. It is way to the top on a comfortable funicular which takes just Museum was set up by the Monte San Salvatore funicular also an ideal place to walk in the countryside. A path runs 15 minutes to run from 292 metres above sea level to 883 company. The restored rooms which are currently used for from behind the Paradiso railway station (282 m above sea metres. Opened on 26 March 1890, the prestigious target the displays were once used by the old hospice, built at level) all the way to (448 metres above sea level) of the 16 millionth passenger to the top of the mountain the end of the 17th century, as a shelter for poor people crossing woodland and then climbing a flight of steps was reached was celebrated in 2006. Nowadays the and pilgrims on their way to the Salvatore Church. Inside running parallel to the funicular railway line as far as the funicular is a reference point for anyone wanting to reach you can admire a collection of rare precious religious art intermediate station. The route which continues towards the the top to admire the fine views, for climbers on the via as well as a collection of geological material used for top of the mountain (912 m above sea level) can be ferrata route which was opened in 2002, for cavers and for teaching purposes, and containing rocks, minerals and undertaken by walking through the area of woodland gourmets looking forward to a good meal at the Vetta fossils. There is also a room dedicated to caves; in fact bordering Monte San Salvatore before emerging out of the restaurant. Ticino boasts important natural heritage in this area, woods near to the museum. The seven scenic viewpoints comprising over 190 caves. The final exhibition space sets can be located by means of colour-coding allowing visitors out to relate the historical significance of storms and to identify their position using a universal language. From Food with a View lightning research, a universal phenomenon which has the summit you can then descend on foot along the scenic always fascinated mankind due to its mysterious, path running to Ciona, walking amongst plants and flowers. captivating nature. “Following lightning” is the name of this Immersed in the cool woods, you reach Carona and the The Vetta restaurant with its panoramic terrace makes the new exhibition. Entrance to the museum is free for holders San Grato botanical Park, just a few minutes on foot from ideal spot for winding down, having a chat with friends and of funicular tickets. the town centre. If you want to continue to Morcote, the having a bite to eat in the beautiful setting of Lake Lugano walk goes on along a shady, flat path crossing before and the mountains all around it. The atmosphere is laid- arriving at. From here you can descend a flight of steps. back and the Mediterranean style cuisine is perfect for Otherwise from Carona it is possible to walk along a track sunny summer days. In short the Vetta restaurant is a Via Ferrata all the way to Melide where you can visit . Return to veritable haven of peace and quiet just a stone’s throw Paradiso is possible by means of the post bus, the boat or away from the city. the train. There is no need to be an expert climber to climb on the rocky faces of San Salvatore. Thanks to a system of cables, ladders, anchors and pitons you can climb the mountain in complete safety, accompanied by a mountain guide. The via ferrata, with a vertical climb of over 150 metres is over 250 metres long, physically challenging, but anybody who is fit and who does not suffer from vertigo, can use it.

www.montesansalvatore.ch

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 30 Monte Lema

At 1624 metres, Monte Lema is the major scenic viewpoint in Italian speaking Switzerland. From this splendid natural terrace you can admire the southern Ticino valleys, Lake Lugano, the Luino and valleys. And on a clear day, so much more: the unforgettable scene also takes in the Graubunden Alps, Valais and the Valley, all the way to Milan. On Lema people live in close contact with nature; you can meet herds of Highland cattle, taste fresh milk from Alpine Farms, cross wide pastures and discover picturesque Malcantone villages.

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area. The Restaurant and Hostel The Cable Car

The revamped Vetta Monte Lema Restaurant-Hostel offers From Miglieglia a modern cable car whisks you up to the practical self-service dining and typical Ticino fare both top in just 10 minutes. Open between April and November, outdoors and on the scenic terrace. For 35 CHF you can the cable car runs more frequently during July and August buy a combined ticket for the cable car ride and the meal and stays open longer. of the day (not including drinks). Every Sunday the restaurant offers a special meal which varies from roast beef to duck breast, pork knuckle to bollito, for 27 CHF. Model Aircraft For people wishing to overnight on the mountain there are 55 beds available, divided into dormitories, single rooms, doubles and triples, with showers and shared bathrooms Monte Lema is also very popular with fans of model on the same floor. Breakfast is included in the aeroplanes thanks to the excellent thermal currents and the accommodation price. flattish, grassy terrain which is ideal for taking off and landing. The area is just 10 minutes from the restaurant and the thermals allow models to fly in every direction. On Paragliding sunny days hobbyists can be assured hours and hours of fun.

The Monte Lema summit is a thrilling place for fans of paragliding and hang gliding, offering a grassy 360° take- off area. There are two possible landing sites: less Observatory experienced paragliders and hang gliders can land at Sessa. More experienced pilots can land at Miglieglia, next From the observatory it is possible to admire and study the to the cable car departure station. As a flight area, Lema stars “up close” thanks to the 410 mm diameter telescope. allows pilots to enjoy gliding and easy criss-crossing along Its software enables users to focus automatically on the the crest leading to Monte Tamaro, and longer flights over stars to make their experience easier and more enjoyable. 200 km, towards and the Engadine. Anybody who has never flown before but wants to experience the www.montelema.ch thrill of flight, can fly tandem with a qualified pilot.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 31 Parks

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Parco Ciani Tassino Park

Overlooking the lake, with an area of 63,000 m², this is the Near to , this 21,000 m² park city’s green heart. Thanks to its enviable position within features wide avenues meandering across a slope, up to walking distance of the city centre, Ciani is the place the top of the hill, where the Enderlin tower, of a pink where the people of Lugano and tourists relax, strolling in colour, rises up; at the foot of the tower there is a square the shade of centuries-old trees. The paths meander from where you can admire wonderful views. The whole amongst beautiful flower beds, adorned with statues and city, laid out beneath you, is visible, as are Lugano Bay, fountains, winding through well-kept English style lawns. Monte Brè and the outlines of Monte San Salvatore. There The park is divided into two areas. The first one near to are also stone tables where you can relax in the shade or Villa Ciani, can be reached from the main entrance, at the enjoy a picnic. The park’s sunny position encourages the end of the lakefront. At this point the garden’s growth of many species of rose, magnolia trees originating characteristics are part Italian, part English: wide in New Zealand, Japanese cornus and rare varieties of flowerbeds alternate with bright green lawns and trees and blue, red and white Chinese wisteria. bushes from all over the world. The second area goes from the dock up to the river Cassarate and is “wild” and Young visitors can have fun in the spacious playground or features local plants; in fact there are oaks, lime, plane can admire the herds of deer and mouflons living in the trees and sycamores, all of which are typical of Ticino park. woodland. Within this wooded area there is a children’s area full of playground games for every age. Inside Ciani Park there are also several buildings: Villa Ciani, Palazzo dei Congressi (the conference centre), the dock, the Canton Natural History Museum and the Canton library.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 32 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Olive Park San Grato Park

This fine terraced park lies on the slopes of Monte Brè and With a surface area of 62,000 m², San Grato Park boasts occupies around 20,000 m². Its paths and steep flights of the largest collection of azaleas, rhododendrons and stairs meander through groves of olives trees, cypresses, conifers, in terms of variety and quantity, in the whole laurels and myrtles, all of which are typical of the region. Between San Salvatore and Monte Mediterranean macchia and have become well Arbòstora, approximately 10 km from Lugano, it extends up acclimatised in Lugano thanks to its mild climate. Walking to 690 metres above sea level, affording outstanding views along the hill is highly enjoyable. You can find the vineyard over the nearby area, Lake Lugano and the Alpine peaks. created by Lugano Municipality where 2400 Merlot vines Visiting the park you find yourself immersed in an were planted, and following the olive and flowers paths environment with one-of-a-kind natural and decorative you reach Castagnola, affording splendid views over Lake characteristics: the large swathes of azaleas and Lugano and the mountains. The terracing in the park, rhododendrons are crisscrossed by five thematic trails: facing directly south and covered by lush natural botanical, relaxation, scenic, artistic and fairy-tale, each vegetation, is particularly favourable for olive trees, bushes one of which reveals different aspects of the park which are and perennials which thrive in dry, hot, very sunny areas. renewed as the seasons change. The playground which The main trees and bushes are those which are typical of has recently been renovated, is easily reachable and Mediterranean areas: small olive trees, green cypresses, located in the centre of the park, amongst rare, impressive laurel, pomegranate, maritime pines and flowering laurel. conifers. It offers children and adults the chance to play The grassy layer which is a wonderful dry flowering and have fun. San Grato Restaurant, with its scenic meadow, is made up of oregano, thyme, sage, daisies, terrace, is organised so as to meet the needs of everyone, carnations, sempervivum, daffodils and wild tulips, offering from Sunday day-trippers to refined gourmets. The park visitors an unforgettable natural spectacle every spring, also features a chapel dedicated to Saint Grato, the Saint between May and June. The Olive Trail winds its way for invoked against lightning, storms, pests harming crops and approximately 2 km between Gandria and Castagnola, to pray for rain during periods of drought. through an area of rare natural beauty where ancient olive groves coexist with recently planted trees. Along the route there are 18 information boards providing information about the history and conservation of olives; there are also many centuries old trees such as the famous “Carlin Olive tree” at Gandria pier, which overlooks the lake with its 10 m of height and 45 cm trunk diameter.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 33 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Scherrer Park Villa Florida Park San Michele Park

Scherrer Park, at Morcote, offers visitors a unique A 5,350 square metre gem in the heart of the Loreto Boasting 12,000 square metres of greenery, this park is opportunity to go on an exciting trip through time and district. Surrounded by high-class blocks of flats, old villas perched on the slopes of Monte Brè and provides the most space, where past and present, history and nature and historical hotels, Villa Florida Park is a 1920s style captivating views of all Lugano. Several architectural harmoniously blend into one another. These splendid garden, built on two separate levels separated by a stone elements are arranged throughout the park: the chapel botanical gardens are dotted with period monuments and retaining wall. The park was created in 1985 by dedicated to St Michael, a rustic dwelling and a number of buildings from different cultures, set in magnificent verdant amalgamating two properties. Several original elements of stone sculptures. Behind the chapel lies the main terrace surrounds at the foot of Monte Arbòstora. From the Park it Villa Florida were maintained such as the caretaker’s affording one-of-a-kind views: you can admire the city, the is possible to admire the landscape over the Italian side of house, the flight of stairs serving as an entrance to the Lake with the unmistakable silhouette of Monte San Lake Lugano, the hills and the Po Valley. The villa, the artificial grotto in tufa-stone, the pergola above Salvatore, Melide bridge/dam and the village of Caprino. slopes and terracing are covered in cypresses, camellias, the imposing retaining wall and the “Belvedere” with its Another things which is striking about San Michele is its camphor, eucalyptus trees, cedars, monkey puzzle trees, “berceau” in wrought iron with white wisteria wrapped all vegetation. Paths lead through typical Mediterranean flora palms and bamboo Woods, all exotic, Oriental plants which around it. The new portion of the park is inspired by art with a wealth of wisteria, oleanders, oak, elm, ash and Scherrer, the creator of the Park, had admired during his nouveau style: elements such as stairs, fountains, walls laurel. Immersed in this haven of wonder, the city below travels abroad for work. Inspired by Oriental landscapes and railings were restored or reconstructed in the original and its traffic pale into insignificance next to the and cultures, Scherrer didn’t merely reproduce the form. The Park offers a multipurpose piazza and a unparalleled views and the evocative sensations that fascinating vegetation he encountered: year after year, he playground where there is also a giant chessboard. The nature conjures up. reproduced a number of reduced scale temples from the Park lies in a splendid position and visitors can admire Mediterranean world and exotic, distant countries. The Park particularly well-kept specimens of trees: box hedges, includes two areas, with two main styles: Mediterranean pyramid shaped yew trees, palms, oleanders, wisteria and and Asian. The route firstly goes through Mediterranean the famous handkerchief tree. garden terracing in the Renaissance and baroque styles, with an abundance of statues; it then continues through bamboo groves in the Oriental landscape which is quite astonishing due to the presence of Siamese, Arab and Indian constructions, together with the flora typifying these regions. Along the route it is possible sit down in the shade pergolas and enjoy splendid vistas over the Lake. When you come out of the Park you find the Park Grotto, where you can rest after the visit to the biological gardens.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 34 Swissminiatur

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

A one-hour journey taking in the whole of Switzerland. Seems impossible? Not in Swissminiatur, the park reproducing a miniature version of the Swiss Confederation. The Park covers 14,000 m². Dotted around the park you can admire the over 120 1:125 scale models of the most famous buildings and monuments in Switzerland. And this is not all: a network of 3560 metres of miniature railway wends its way through the Park with 18 trains running on tracks, crossing bridges and stopping at stations, whilst boats ply the lakes, cable cars and climb and descend mountains and cars run along the motorways.

The park is embellished with 1500 plants and over 10,000 flowers of every colour, whilst children will enjoy the playground containing swings, slides and games of every type.

You will be spoilt for choice if you want a bite to eat: alongside local fare, Swissminiatur self-service restaurant also offers Chinese and Indian specialities, cooked by chefs from Hong Kong and Chandigarh. During the year, Swissminiatur organises a range of special events, some of which are held in the evening, such as theme-based dinners, celebrations for mothers and fathers day and drawing lessons for children. The events on offer are always appealing and young and old alike are sure to have fun at Swissminiatur.

www.swissminiatur.ch

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 35 Guided Excursions

The Tourist Office offers a wide range of guided excursions for anybody who wants to get to know the city and the neighbouring areas better. Almost all the excursions are free of charge; to take part all you need to do is report to one of the Lugano Tourist Office’s Info Points.

Lugano - Unexpected Classic Tour Lugano, Yesterday and Today Romantic Walk Through Traditions - Gandria Walk through Lugano’s city centre streets to discover Another great opportunity to explore Lugano free of Amongst the new tours on offer, we had to include the traditional and new cultural aspects showing the city in a charge is to take part in this walking tour around the city romantic village of Gandria, a magical, incredibly alluring new, surprising light. This free tour which lasts two hours, centre. You will be able to admire the historical buildings, place where you can go back in time and discover life as it sets off every Monday at 10 AM from April to October from churches, statues and piazzas which so typify the city. used to be, imagining yourself as a fisherman going about the Lugano Tourism Information Office-Civic Building and From May to October, every Thursday, the tour kicks off at his daily affairs. Every Monday afternoon, between May includes the chance to see architectural monuments, 10 AM, and for approximately 2 hours, escorts participants and the middle of October, you can travel by boat, with a modern constructions and the opportunity to explore the through the mediaeval heart of the city, stopping off at guide, before gladly losing yourself strolling up and down edestrianized centre with its characteristic alleyways. some of the most beautiful points. the village’s narrow lanes. The route back to the city is along the evocative nature trail, better known as the “Olive Trail”.

Lugano - Monte Brè Lugano - Monte San Salvatore

Every Friday afternoon between May and October, the The gulf of Lugano is made special by two mountains that Tourist Office offers the opportunity of taking part in a free mark its boundaries: Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore. guided tour which takes visitors on a trip to discover Monte The latter, whose shape recalls that of the more famous . The meeting point is at the Debarcadero Central Pão de Açúcar, has conferred the nickname of “Little Rio” Embarkation Point in Lugano where the boat which runs to to Lugano. This excursion allows you to enjoy the natural Cassarate leaves from. After an enjoyable trip on the beauty of the place from many different points of view. The Lake, you will continue by funicular to the top of the excursion starts on the lakeshore, where you can take a mountain in order to admire the fine views over Monte look at some cultural and artistic sites such as the LAC and Rosa, before proceeding on foot to the old village of , the Santa Maria Degli Angeli Church and then after where you will visit the old stone houses and admire the reaching the top with the funicular you will be able to enjoy village’s artistic heritage, the Wilhelm Schmid Museum, the a truly breath-taking view. church and the cemetery. The return, again by boat, is from Cassarate with arrival back at the Central Embarkation Point.

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area. Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 36 Excursions and Walks

Lugano is at the centre of a region permitting a vast range of excursions at any time of year. The efficient transport network made up of trains, buses, boats, funiculars and cable cars, offers rapid, convenient access to the most alluring places, enabling tourists to easily discover the great variety of landscapes within this area. The network of walking trails, comprising 700 km of signposted, well- maintained paths, offers all nature lovers opportunities ranging from half-hour strolls to hikes lasting several days, so that everyone can find their ideal walk. Here are some of the most popular:

Lugano Trekking

A three-day adventure in the mountains of Ticino allowing On the second day we take the ridge, leaving the forest On the third and final morning we climb the ridge leading to walkers and hikers to really enjoy the splendid landscapes behind and before us we have the limestone rocks at the the top of Monte Bar. The view takes in Valle d’Isone, Lago all around, the region’s beauty and the tranquillity of the top of Oress. We follow the slope to the Bocchetta di San Maggiore and the area. We stay on the ridge countryside. This hike will appeal to all those interested in Bernardo and the rich flora typical of the limestone terrain before crossing from Caval Drossa to Motto della Croce, flora, fauna and geology, as well as those who simply enjoy gives way to less impressive crystalline rocks. Anybody with a close-up view over Valle Capriasca. The descent walking and coming into contact with nature. Each one of who feels up to it can climb from Alpe di Pianca Bella to continues to the Bocchetta di Gola di Lago, where we find the three days is divided into two stages: between the first the summit of Fojorina, typified by limestone outcrops nationally important mountain bogs bearing witness to the and second stages you have the chance to rest, whilst at where we can admire the splendid views before embarking ancient post-glacial landscape dating back approximately the end of the day, comfortable accommodation is on the steep descent to Bocchetta di San Bernardo. In the 10,000 years. Along the path we can still see the military organized in an Alpine hut along the way. past, smuggling routes crisscrossed these areas, the fortifications dating back to the first and second world wars reason why, near to San Lucio pass, on the Italian side, and which are now no longer use. From Alpe Santa Maria This exciting experience sets off from the village of Brè and the finance police barracks was built, now turned into a we climb towards Monte di Bigorio, crossing typical Alpine ends at Tesserete in the ancient parish of Capriasca. The cosy mountain hut. We then start to climb the ridge leading pastures. After the old village of Condra, we continue to the route which covers a total of 44.4 kilometres with a height to . From the summit there is an incredible view: Santa Maria di Bigorio convent. difference which should not cause difficulty for anyone, the Lugano area, the Magadino plain, Lago Maggiore and involves a total of 18 hours walking. The starting and arrival far away in the distance, the Alps, with the exception of the We descend alongside the chapels on the Via Crucis, points are served by public transport connecting to the Gotthard massif which is hidden by the summit of crossing the town of Bigorio and walking along the old mule centre of Lugano and the railway station. Camoghè. We descend along steep mountain pastures path we arrive at Tesserete. and reach Alpe Pietrarossa, from where we can again admire Denti della Vecchia, Monte Boglia and Monte Setting out from Brè , we cross steep slopes covered by Generoso. The barren slops of Monte Bar and Gazzirola For anyone who is not keen on walking so far, Lugano beech forests, before reaching the top of Monte Boglia, are witness to the excessive exploitation of woodland Trekking offers the opportunity to choose alternative routes, which affords such beautiful views that we soon forget the perpetrated up to the end of the 19th century, when there lasting one or two days, which arrive at Val Colla and Alta effort expended in the climb. The descent, heading was strong demand for timber to produce the charcoal Capriasca, at approximately 1000 m above sea level. northwards, follows the ridge and takes us to Alpe Bolla, which fuelled the Val Colla foundries. Crossing the perched on a flattish stretch of ground. We then continue reforestation areas on the convenient forest road which is towards the Denti della Vecchia. The path again crosses closed to traffic, we come across Monte Bar mountain hut the thick mountain pine forest, before emerging into the where it is possible to stay overnight. open just before the Pairolo Hut, where we spend the night.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 37 The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

From the Top of San Salvatore to Morcote Chestnut Trail From Monte Tamaro to Monte Lema

After reaching Monte San Salvatore with the funicular, This theme based trails wends its way for about 15 km in This can be walked in either direction. Crossing the setting off from Paradiso, we can continue on foot up to the the Upper Malcantone area. As well as focusing on mountains between Tamaro and Lema allows us to top of the mountain which affords breath-taking vistas. Then chestnuts, the trees and their cultivation, the route has rediscover the natural beauty of one of the greenest, descending to the Vetta restaurant, we take the path eight didactic points and plenty of information on the way sunniest regions within Canton Ticino. This walk which is leading to the small village of Ciona. We then arrive on the in which chestnuts and chestnut wood were processed 13 km long, usually leaves people speechless, not so Canton road and continue along a mule path all the way to and used. We set out from , the highest village in , at 859 much on account of any physical exertion, rather on Carona, a beautiful village where many expert architects, metres, affording outstanding views over Valle del account of its beauty which led to it being awarded the plasterers and stoneworkers were born before emigrating to Vedeggio, Valle Capriasca and Val Colla. From the “hiking oscar” in . The walk which lasts five or six some of the most important centres in Italy and Europe. Sgambada Grotto first of all we reach the Induno chestnut hours, starts from Alpe Foppa, at 1530 m metres above Carona has a truly delightful mediaeval centre. Of particular wood before continuing towards San Michele church in sea level, reachable with the Tamaro cable car. It then interest is the St George parish church, of Romanesque Arosio. At this important historical point we can observe includes a climb towards the mountain hut on top of Monte origin built in the 16th century with a remarkable choir the roof in stone slabs and part of the old door and window Tamaro (1961 metres) whence we proceed along the fresco by D. Pezzi on the Universal Judgement. Once frames in chestnut wood. At the same point there is an ridges of until we arrive at Monte Lema (1624 metres). we’ve reached the village, near the Pan Perdü grotto, we Italian sundial dating back to 1664, on the south-east side During the walk the landscape is awe-inspiring and will turn right where the track leading to the San Grato tropical of the church and a cube shaped sundial from 1984 on the affect even the most blasé hikers. The view takes in Lago gardens starts from. With their 62,000 square metres, these south-west side. Induno wood can clearly be seen from Maggiore and Lake Lugano, the Alpine peaks dominated gardens possess the most important collection of azaleas, this point. The excursion continues in the direction of by Monte Rosa and . The ticket includes the ride rhododendrons and conifers, in terms of variety and Mugena providing magnificent, exceptional scenic up to Tamaro, the descent from Lema and the special bus quantity, in the entire Insubria region. From the park we can viewpoints over the whole Upper Malcantone area. After running between. also enjoy the outstanding views over the immediate stopping to admire the old village of Mugena, we continue surroundings and the Alpine peaks. The walk continues along the path towards . Near to a natural swimming pool along a wide, shady, flattish path crossing Monte Arbòstora, we cross the Magliasina River. The route takes us along before reaching Alpe Vicania. From here we descend to magnificent, natural wooded avenues, along Firinescio Morcote, first of all walking through woodland and then Valley and then above Vezio before reaching the village of down a stairway next to the typical lakeside village. Of Fescoggia. From Fescoggia we start the return trip, particular note is the original Scherrer Park, known as the descending first towards Caroggio and later climbing garden of wonders, which also includes abundant towards Mugena and then Arosio. We return from Arosio subtropical flora. During the walk, which is a little more than by post bus, taking the same route as in the morning, and 9 km long, there are many eating options, at San Salvatore, arriving at the starting point. at Carona, and Ciona, and lastly at Alpe Vicania and Morcote.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 38 Mountain Bike

The Lugano Tourism Office is pleased to invite you to explore the city of Lugano and the surrounding area.

Cross Country Downhill & Freeride Trail

The Lugano area offers a wide range of routes for Integrated, in a complementary manner to the Alto Besides the two classic routes, mountain bikers can enjoy: mountain bikers. Everywhere there are signposted trails of Vedeggio cycle track and the entire network of mountain the Downhill & Freeride trail running from the middle station varying difficulty and length. Mountain bikers will discover a bike routes, the 2003 cross-country World Championship to Rivera, starting at the cableway station. The trail starts paradise with over 300 km of signposted, well maintained circuit is 5 km long with a maximum height difference of 70 near the middle cableway station at 1,150 m above sea- roads through a truly sublime landscape. For downhill fans, metres. Technically challenging, it is recommended for level and ends at Rivera at 469m above sea-level. The the area offers exciting tracks and fantastic bike parks such sports people who are able to exert themselves to the Downhill & Freeride trail with a difference in level of 680m, as the one on Monte Tamaro, which can be reached by maximum, but it is also possible to avoid the hardest is ideal for perfecting technique and training (full-face means of the cable car. Those who prefer touring by bike section thanks to the creation of an alternative section for helmet obligatory, see Rules). will pass through plains, valleys and vineyards. the less experienced. The MTB World Championship track was designed by Thomas Frischnecht, winner of the world Just a short distance from Lugano is one of the area’s most marathon title in the same year, and prepared by Mathias picturesque trails: Val Colla. The Sonvico climb up to the Arpagaus. Its particular features are the fact that it is Bocchetta di San Bernardo pass is long, but it gives you sinuous, fast and challenging. The track is very appealing the chance to get away from the traffic and the hustle and for amateru riders and completes what Monte Tamaro has bustle of the city. From the top the view over the Lake and to offer in this area. the Alps is absolutely unforgettable. And if you get too tired you can stay overnight at the San Lucio mountain hut. The trail above Val Colla winds through verdant pastures and bubbling mountain streams. Finally after a lengthy descent with many single trail sections, just before returning to Lugano you enter a chestnut tree wood.

Ente Turistico del Luganese | Media Kit | 39