Colossus statue of San Carlo Borromeo

The Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo is a 35-metre-high colossal statue located in Arona, in the province of Novara, in Piedmont.

It was built between 1624 and 1698 to a design by Giovanni Battista Crespi and represents San Carlo Borromeo standing, with a book in his hand and his right arm raised as a sign of blessing.

The statue was erected in memory of San Carlo Borromeo, archbishop of Milan and patron saint of the city.

San Carlo Borromeo was an important religious and political figure of the sixteenth century. He was a great reformer of the Catholic Church and dedicated himself to defending the poor and needy.

The Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo is one of the most important symbols of the city of Arona.

It is a very popular tourist destination and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Lake Maggiore and the Alps.

Here are some interesting facts about the Colossus of San Carlo Borromeo:

• With an overall height of 35.10 meters (equivalent to a 10-story building), the monument was the tallest statue in the world that can be visited inside for almost two centuries, surpassed in 1886 by the Statue of Liberty from New York.
• It was built with 14 tons of copper and 12 tons of iron.
• The right arm of the statue is 8 meters high and weighs 1.8 tons.
• The statue is open to the public and you can climb up to the head, from which you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Lake Maggiore and the Alps.

Map: Colossus statue of San Carlo Borromeo