THE TERRITORY OF ITALIAN-SPEAKING SWITZERLAND

The Italian-speaking region of Switzerland, consisting of Ticino and Mesolcina, is an extraordinary and still relatively unexplored area, full of priceless treasures: a kaleidoscope of natural beauty, history, culture, traditions and, not least of all, wine and food.

From the spectacular mountain chain of the Alps, on the border with German-speaking Switzerland, to the mild Mediterranean climate of Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano, on the border with Italy, our region is the perfect balance between Italian language and atmosphere, and Swiss efficiency!

Here the temperate climate offers, on average, more sunny days than in the rest of Switzerland.

Visitors find it all: a natural world with rich cultural history, uncontaminated nature, mountains, emerald-green rivers, clear mountain lakes, evocative waterfalls, remote valleys with picturesque hamlets. Towns and villages are treasure troves of historical monuments and works of art, which reflect the centuries of shared history between Italy and Switzerland. Artists, poets, philosophers and writers have been inspired by this world, often choosing to permanently reside here.

Ticino proudly boasts three of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Swiss territory: the wonderful Castles of Bellinzona, Monte San Giorgio and the Mendrisio’s Holy Week Processions.

And, like any self-respecting place, gastronomy plays an integral part, with cuisine ranging from traditional to sophisticated, all strictly accompanied by wines that receive ever-increasing international notoriety.

BELLINZONA AND SURROUNDINGS

Strategic territory, positioned in the heart of Italian-speaking Switzerland, crossroads of history art, culture, and a marvellous natural environment.

LOCARNO AND SURROUNDINGS

Mountains, breath taking panoramas, rich vegetation, Mediterranean climate, a radiant and lively town on the shores of renowned Lake Maggiore.

LUGANO AND SURROUNDINGS

A frenetic town of “human dimension”, and a natural lanscape reflected in the waters of Lake Lugano. An ideal blend of old and new. Un misto ideale di moderno e antico.

MENDRISIO AND SURROUNDINGS

Open window on the border with Italy, a hilly landscape where wine, food, art and traditions harmoniously complement each other.

ALPINE VALLEYS

Tucked away amongst the steep sides of the Alps, treasure troves of art, cultre and traditions. Small hamlets, emerald-green rivers, uncontaminated nature.

UNESCO SITES

The splendid Castles of Bellinzona, undisputed protagonists of the history of our region; Monte San Giorgio, paleontological site of extraordinary value; Mendrisio’s Holy Week Processions, a unique event of history and tradition.