Overview
The 'big pencil' – symbol of the city of Lecco
With its bell tower rising up between the mountains and the clear waters of the lake, it is the undisputed symbol of the city of Lecco. The Basilica di San Nicolò stands a few steps away from the lakefront and Piazza Cermenati, at the northern end of the historic centre. This was once the site of the walls that marked the boundaries of the village as early as the 13th century and whose ancient walls are visible today, supporting the churchyard.
The Basilica has undergone major renovations, but the neoclassical façade is still clearly visible, with its pediment supported by six large Corinthian columns. Inside, the building is divided into three naves with side chapels covered by a barrel vault. Works of great artistic value are kept here, such as frescoes of the Giotto school, a 16th century baptismal font, a statue dedicated to the patron saint and two pipe organs.
But the Basilica is best known for its neo-Gothic bell tower, a full 96 metres high and, due to its characteristic shape, nicknamed 'the big pencil' by the city's inhabitants.
