Malgesso between Sundials, Forests and History

Historical Traces and Local Traditions

Malgesso reveals historical traces, a sparsely populated woodland landscape, as well as local festive and culinary customs. Specific local references include the old trade route, ecclesiastical landmarks, the southern woodland area and the three sundials.

Malgesso on an Old Trade Route

An old road of historical and cultural significance connected the lower Novarese area with the Alpine passes. Its route ran through Sesto Calende, Mercallo, Comabbio, Ternate, Travedona, Malgesso, Besozzo and Gemonio, through the Valganna to Ponte Tresa and onward to Switzerland. In the 16th century, this road was known as the “strada mercantesca”, indicating the intensive commercial traffic along it. The name places Malgesso in a historical context that extends beyond the town itself.

Woodland Landscape South of Malgesso

South of Malgesso, on the border with Bregano, lies a sparsely populated natural area with dense deciduous forests. It is partly bordered by the Roggia Acquanegra, the only outlet of Lago di Comabbio. This landscape forms a clear contrast to the town’s ecclesiastical and historical landmarks. In addition to the Roggia Acquanegra, dense deciduous forests characterize the southern landscape.

Churches, Washhouse and Old Mill

The town’s ecclesiastical history dates back a long way. The Church of San Michele Arcangelo was founded as a small oratory in the 13th century. The parish of Saints Michele and Luigi in Malgesso was established on June 18, 1873. The parish church of Malgesso also had a Confraternity of the Blessed Sacrament, founded in 1874. Another historical landmark is the Fontana del Gal washhouse on Strada Provinciale No. 35. The ancient Mulino Franzetti is also located in the forests of Malgesso. The town’s history thus encompasses religious foundations, ecclesiastical communities, a washhouse and an old mill.

Sundials as a Distinctive Feature of the Town

The gnomonic complex of Malgesso is part of a larger network of municipalities with technically and artistically high-quality sundials. The three sundials of Malgesso display local true solar noon, conventional mean noon and true solar hours. For those interested in culture, the complex combines timekeeping, local identity and design.

Gall Trail and Local Cuisine

The Gall Trail begins in the northern forests of Malgesso. Along the Gall Trail, you come across the recently restored historic washhouse of Malgesso. The trail therefore leads through the northern forests to a historic washhouse. Malgesso’s traditional patronal festival is dedicated to Saint Michael and takes place on the last Sunday in September. On Saint Joseph’s Day, special fritters were prepared in Malgesso. The festival date and the fritters add local traditions to the historical references to the trail and landscape.

More Destinations

More destinations for planning your personal trip to Italy: Porto Valtravaglia, Cardano Al Campo, Olgiate Olona, Brinzio, Castelveccana, Rasa Di Varese, Ranco, Pino Sulla Sponda Del Lago Maggiore.

To the higher-level travel overview: Varese.