Como

Como stands at the southern end of the western branch of Lake Como, where routes from the Alps meet the Lombard plain. Julius Caesar established the Roman town of Novum Comum on a regular street plan after draining the lakeside marsh. Its cathedral and medieval town hall reflect the later city's religious and civic life.

Long a rival of Milan, Como was conquered by Azzone Visconti in 1335 and incorporated into Milan's domain. After Gian Galeazzo Visconti died in 1402, Franchino Rusca led a rebellion, and his son Loterio regained the lordship of Como in 1412. The return of the Rusca did not end unrest, and further fighting and massacres followed. The recovery was short-lived: after renewed conflict, Filippo Maria Visconti brought the city back under Milanese control in 1416.