Camerlata Fountain – a monument in dialogue with urban dynamism

History and description

Designed in 1935–36 by Cesare Cattaneo and Mario Radice, commissioned by Attilio Terragni of Como, the Camerlata Fountain is a white concrete structure composed of horizontal rings alternating with spheres, symbolizing the continuous movement of vehicular traffic in the square where it stands. Initially intended for Piazzale Corsica, the fountain was also exhibited at the 6th Milan Triennale, where it received positive reviews. During World War II, it was stored near a municipal warehouse for a long period before being relocated to its current position.

Curiosities

Originally conceived as a representation of Alessandro Volta’s electric battery, the fountain is an abstract work that is often illuminated during special events or commemorative days, creating—together with the city walls—one of the most evocative spectacles in Como.

Access

As it is located in a public urban space, the fountain is freely accessible and always visible from the outside.

How to reach it

From the center of Como, the fountain is easily reachable by car, with parking available around the square, or by public transport, such as the Como Camerlata railway station located nearby.

A particularly striking contemporary work, the Camerlata Fountain is one of the most beautiful monumental structures to admire in Como.

Photo credits: Maurizio Moro5153 (Wikipedia) - Licensed by CC 4.0