Tour audio The historical centre of Mendrisio

There are many reasons to visit Mendrisio, one of which is the historical and cultural value of the nucleus, which has been able to preserve its ancient appearance, further enhanced and embellished by recent and successful restorations.

Palaces and churches, narrow streets and gates that open onto splendid inner courtyards are the main features of Mendrisio's historic centre, where many structures have been able to "age in beauty" and offer an interesting variety of styles.

In fact, walking through the streets of the village you can recognize several of them: the Romanesque, well represented by the bell tower of the Church of Santa Maria and the Oratory of the Madonna delle Grazie; the roccoco or late Baroque, gracefully decorated, of which the Church of San Giovanni and Palazzo Pollini are admirable examples; the neoclassical with its elegant sobriety, which we find in the Parish Church of Santi Cosma e Damiano and in the facade of the old Hospital of the Beata Vergine. There are also unusual stylistic proposals such as Villa Argentina, which blends Palladian style with the language of colonial buildings, or contemporary works such as Piazzale alla Valle, created by Mario Botta. But painting and sculpture also contribute to embellish the village: paintings and statues by local and Lombard masters are present in the churches. The Art Museum also offers a wide range of paintings and statues from the 16th century to the present day.

Visiting the Old Town do not forget to look for the rich heritage of hidden treasures among the streets, but not for this reason less precious: the old houses with entrances embellished by elegant period portals, which once crossed show their beautiful courtyards.