THE ROMAN FORTRESS

In Santa Maria, between the lake and the old “Strada Regina” there are the remains of an imposing structure whose origins go back to the late roman/early medieval times. The structure was part of  a bigger complex that extended over a much wider area. During the years material from the fortress was used for various other building including the beautiful church dedicated to “Santa Maria Assunta”. In 1972 the remains of a circular tower were found in the square in front of the church.

A couple of inscriptions prove that this site was inhabited since the beginning of the roman empire. One is dedicated to “Neptuno et dis aquatibus”, the other, now in the wall of one of Menaggio’s oldest churches, to Lucio Minicio son of Lucio subject of Tito Vespasiano. Numerous diggings brought back to light a number of coins, vases and other material. 

During the next few months a project will undergo to preserve this important site and open it to the public.