Colosso di san Carlo Borromeo
Colossal copper statue about 35 metres tall (1698), climbable from the inside up to the head, with a panoramic terrace over Lake Maggiore.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The statue of Saint Charles Borromeo stands on a hill at about 310 metres above sea level, on the road between Arona and Dagnente, in the saint's home town, and for about two centuries it was the tallest statue in the world. At around 35 metres it is visible even from the lake, and it is affectionately called “Sancarlone” by the people of Arona.
The work, designed by Giovan Battista Crespi, known as Cerano, was executed by the sculptors Siro Zanella and Bernardo Falconi, who slightly increased its proportions; it was completed in 1698. Inside it is hollow and supported by a core of stone, brick and iron; on the outside it is formed of copper sheets hammered and joined with rivets and tie rods. The blessing arm rests on a complex metal structure designed to withstand the strong winds of the area.
From the pedestal two spiral iron staircases lead to the terrace; from here a door among the folds of the robe allows you to climb inside up to the head, from which you look out through the saint's eyes, nostrils and ears. The site recalls that the sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi stayed in Arona to study the structure of the colossus before designing the Statue of Liberty.
Highlights
- Inner climb of 85 steps up to the saint's head
- Terrace with telescopes and views over Lake Maggiore and the Rocca di Angera
- Structure of copper sheets over a core of stone, brick and iron
- Park with picnic areas
- Church of San Carlo on the hill
- Founded
- 1698
- Visitors per year
- approx. 46,815
Admission & discounts
| Adults | €10 |
|---|---|
| Reduced | €5groups (at least 25 people), schools and children and young people aged 6 to 16 |
| Children & teens | €5free up to age 5 · Children and young people aged 6 to 16; children under 6 enter free but cannot climb inside the statue (a document is required). |
| Visitors with disabilities | –Free admission for people with disabilities. |
| Students & apprentices | €5School rate; one free accompanying adult for every 15 paying students. |
| Groups (25+ people) | €5 per personRate for groups of at least 25 people. |
| Terrace only | €7 |
| Residents of Arona | €1With an identity document showing residence |
The full price of €10 includes the terrace and the climb inside the statue. 10% discount for holders of the Lago Maggiore Zipline ticket (within 3 days of purchase). Free also for holders of the Abbonamento Musei Piemonte. Tickets are sold only at the on-site ticket office, not online; staff do not refund tickets. Anyone entitled to free admission or a reduction must show a valid identity document.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible: no information
- Elevator: no information
- Accessible restroom: no information
- Accessible parking: no information
- Service dogs welcome: no information
- Tactile models & exhibits: no information
- Sign language tours: no information
- Easy-to-read materials: no information
- Audio description: no information
Inside the statue there are architectural barriers (spiral staircase and vertical ladder) that may make access difficult for people with mobility or visual impairments.
Kids & families
Only partly suitable for kidsRecommended for ages 6+
| Kids’ admission | free up to age 5 |
|---|
Climbing into the statue is allowed from the age of 6 completed; up to 12 with an adult companion.
Getting there & parking
By car
Parking available
The square in front of the statue has a paid car park; a little further on there is a large free parking area.
By car from Switzerland, Verbania and Stresa: SS33 del Sempione road, then in Arona via Verbano as far as the statue. From Milan: A8 (Milan–Lakes) motorway, Castelletto Ticino exit, then follow the signs for “Statua di San Carlo”. From Turin: A26 motorway, Arona exit, then towards the centre and the same signs.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
The park has picnic areas; groups can eat packed lunches by reservation.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| School programs | yes |
| Photography | Cameras and video cameras cannot be used during the climb or the descent (they must be securely fastened to the body). Photos and videos in the park must be requested in advance at statuasancarlo@ambrosiana.it. |
| Good to know | The climb inside has 85 steps, about 24 metres, with a spiral staircase and a vertical ladder; it is not suitable for people who suffer from claustrophobia, vertigo or heart and respiratory problems. Children may climb from the age of 6 completed; up to the age of 12 they must be accompanied by an adult. Slippers, flip-flops, backpacks, bulky bags and umbrellas are not allowed. The climb takes place in small groups and the wait can exceed an hour: it is advisable to ask about the waiting time at the ticket office. Harnesses and helmets are available on request. Dogs are admitted only in the park, on a leash and with a muzzle. Minimum visit duration about 30 minutes. Guided tours (for example in October) and initiatives for schools are also offered. |
