Lambertenghi Palace

Lambertenghi Palace Como: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the historic heart of Como, Italy, Palazzo Lambertenghi is a striking example of Lombard Baroque architecture and a testament to the city’s aristocratic and cultural legacy. Built in the early 17th century by unifying several pre-existing buildings, the palace reflects Como’s dynamic urban development and noble traditions. Once the residence of the influential Lambertenghi family—key figures in Como’s civic and cultural life—the palace today stands as a rare window into the region’s history, art, and society (VisitComo; Como Companion).

While many original decorative features have been lost or altered over centuries, the palace preserves significant treasures, most notably the evocative Sala Recchi frescoes. Access to Palazzo Lambertenghi is limited, typically granted only during special occasions such as Fondo per l’Ambiente Italiano (FAI) open days and select cultural festivals. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the palace’s history, architecture, visiting logistics, and tips for exploring the surrounding historic sites in Como.

Architectural History and Evolution
Artistic Heritage: The Sala Recchi
Social and Cultural Significance
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Nearby Attractions and Itineraries
Practical Visitor Tips
FAQs
Conclusion
References

Architectural History and Evolution

Origins and Development

Palazzo Lambertenghi is located at Via Lambertenghi 41 in Como’s historic center. Its origins date to the early 17th century, with construction beginning around 1615, following the common practice among Lombard nobility of merging several existing buildings to create a grand residence (VisitComo). The project continued through 1618, reflecting both the ambitions of the Lambertenghi family and the evolving architectural tastes of the era.

The palace’s original design embraced early Lombard Baroque aesthetics, characterized by dynamic forms and sophisticated stucco work. Over time, the building underwent several renovations. Ownership passed from the Lambertenghi family to other prominent families—Guaita, Lucini Passalacqua, and Galli di Rondineto—each contributing subtle changes and modernizations, particularly in the 20th century. These transformations, while necessary for preservation and adaptation, led to the loss of much of the 17th- and 18th-century décor, though essential elements like the Sala Recchi frescoes remain.

Exterior and Urban Context

Palazzo Lambertenghi’s façade is integrated seamlessly with the surrounding urban fabric, typical of Italian city palazzi. The building’s exterior likely features rusticated stonework at the base, symmetrical windows, a central portal, and understated cornices—hallmarks of early 17th-century Lombard architecture (ArchitectureLab). The palace’s location near the Roman city walls and other prestigious residences situates it within Como’s historic noble quarter.

Artistic Heritage: The Sala Recchi

The artistic heart of the palace is the Sala Recchi, a reception room graced by vibrant 17th-century frescoes by Giovan Battista Recchi—an esteemed local artist renowned for his dynamic compositions and allegorical themes (Como Companion). The ceiling fresco, divided into four sections, personifies Water, Power, Commerce, and Agriculture—symbolizing the vital forces underpinning Como’s prosperity and reflecting the city’s historical priorities.

Recchi’s surviving frescoes, despite the loss of broader decorative schemes, are a rare example of Baroque artistry within a private residence. Their preservation offers invaluable insight into both artistic practice and the social aspirations of Como’s nobility during the 17th century.

Beyond its private function, Palazzo Lambertenghi played a central role in Como’s intellectual and civic life. The Lambertenghi family were active patrons of the arts and supporters of local institutions. Their palace was a gathering place for artists, scholars, and political figures, contributing to Como’s reputation as a center for enlightened thought and cultural exchange (National Geographic; Lake Como Travel).

The palace’s “giardini pensili” (hanging gardens) and salons hosted literary and musical gatherings, while its architecture and furnishings projected the status and identity of the family. Today, the building’s continued participation in events such as the FAI Days and Lake Como Design Festival maintains its role as a vibrant site of cultural engagement (Lagodicomo.com).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours

Palazzo Lambertenghi is not open for daily public visits. Access is typically restricted to special events, most notably those organized by Fondo per l’Ambiente Italiano (FAI) and select cultural festivals. During these occasions, visiting hours are generally from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but exact times are announced in advance (Como Companion).

Tickets

Entry is by ticket only during designated events. Prices usually range from €5 to €12, and advance booking is strongly recommended due to limited capacity.

Accessibility

Given its historic structure, the palace has limited accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. Some areas, including upper floors, may only be accessible by stairs. Visitors requiring assistance should contact event organizers before attending.

Tours

Guided tours are sometimes available during open days, providing expert commentary on the palace’s history and artwork. These are often bilingual (Italian and English) and may require separate reservation.

Nearby Attractions and Itineraries

Lambertenghi Palace is ideally situated for exploring Como’s wealth of historic sites:

Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como): A magnificent blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.
Broletto and Civic Tower: Medieval civic buildings adjacent to the cathedral.
Porta Torre: A striking medieval city gate at Piazza Vittoria.
Villa Olmo: Neoclassical villa with art exhibitions and gardens.
Tempio Voltiano: Museum dedicated to Alessandro Volta, inventor of the electric battery.
Funicular to Brunate: Offers panoramic lake and city views.
Silk Museum (Museo Didattico della Seta): Highlights Como’s silk industry heritage.

Combine your palace visit with these attractions for a comprehensive experience of Como’s historic and cultural landscape (planetware.com; understandingitaly.com).

Practical Visitor Tips

Event Schedules: Always check the official Como tourism website or event organizers for up-to-date visiting hours and ticketing.
Advance Booking: Secure tickets early for FAI Days and guided tours.
Accessibility: Contact event staff for details if you have mobility needs.
Photography: Non-flash photography is generally allowed during events, but confirm before your visit.
Attire: Wear comfortable shoes for cobbled streets and dress modestly.
Dining: Numerous cafés and restaurants are nearby, especially around Piazza Duomo and Piazza Cavour.
Transport: Como’s center is largely pedestrian; public parking is available at Autosilo Valduce and Autosilo Centro Lago.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Palazzo Lambertenghi open daily to the public?
A: No, visits are only possible during special events (e.g., FAI Days) or with guided tours.

Q: How do I buy tickets for a visit?
A: Tickets are sold online or at the event, but advance booking is recommended due to limited entry.

Q: Is the palace suitable for wheelchair users?
A: Accessibility is limited. Some ground-floor areas may be accessible, but upper floors are not. Contact organizers for specific assistance.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Photography is permitted in some areas, but always confirm policies during your visit.

Q: What other sites should I visit nearby?
A: Como Cathedral, Broletto, Villa Olmo, and the Silk Museum are all within easy reach.

Conclusion

Palazzo Lambertenghi is a captivating emblem of Como’s aristocratic, artistic, and architectural heritage. Though access is limited, special events and guided tours offer rare opportunities to appreciate its unique features, including the celebrated Sala Recchi frescoes. Enhance your visit by exploring surrounding historic sites and participating in Como’s vibrant cultural calendar. For the latest updates on visiting hours, tickets, and events, consult official tourism resources and consider downloading the Audiala app for personalized audio guides and event alerts.

Don’t miss the chance to discover this hidden gem and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Como.

References and Further Reading

Palazzo Lambertenghi: Exploring Como’s Historic Gem - Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Highlights, 2023, VisitComo (VisitComo)
Palazzo Lambertenghi in Como: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Architectural History, 2023, VisitComo (VisitComo)
Como’s Hidden Gems: The Sala Recchi, 2023, Como Companion (Como Companion)
Lake Como Guide, 2023, National Geographic (National Geographic)
Como History, 2023, Lake Como Travel (Lake Como Travel)
Discover Como Cultural Events, 2025, Lagodicomo.com (Lagodicomo.com)