ASCONA
Tourist Information Tel. 41.91.791.00.91 - Fax 41.91.785.19.41
Ascona
is an elegant and exclusive tourist centre of Lago Maggiore.
The small town, thanks to the sunny bay, which favours the
mild climate, is at the top of the tourist Swiss offers, exalted
by the traditional hospitality of its people. Ascona, an active
village already in the Middle Age when it had four castles, has
always attracted artists, who have left here many works. The
most extraordinary cultural experience happened at the
beginning of XX century, when the hill of Ascona, called again
Monte Verità, became a privileged place for European
intellectuals, who sang hymns to nature. The town has
preserved this treasure, in fact culture, art and music are
present in every events. The urban beauties of Ascona are:
the picturesque 
village with its little port and the wide beach,
always appreciated by tourists and artists, such as Thomas
Mann and Erich Maria Remarque. It is funny walking along the
beautiful promenade, dominating the bay, or in the historic
centre, full of shops, exclusive museums, art galleries, and a
continuing succession of pleasant things. It is worth visiting:
the church Santi Pietro e Paolo, basilica of XVI century; the
marvellous baroque facade of the house Serodine; the magnificent
college, founded by Bartolomeo Papio in 1584; the castle
Ghiriglioni, built in 1250; and the Town Museum of Modern Art.
Events:
the last friday of June: New Orleans Jazz Festival, for 10 evenings. The first
week-end of August: international horse show CSIO of Ascona. 20 Aug - 20 Oct:
musical weeks.
© Edizioni Marwan
Fotografie: Mario Parietti
Redazione: Roberto Stangalini
