Some unfinished business required us to head to the “big city” of Como on Monday, in order to overnight some documents back to the states. Happily, there was a Mailbox Etc. just outside the 12^th century walls of the old city (now surrounded by a bustling, more modern expansion). It was another beautiful day, perfect for exploring, so we wandered in.

We were delighted to discover that this old part of Como is almost completely free of motorized vehicles…just a lovely complex of cobbled streets and piazzas, with shops, coffee bars and restaurants all around. The center of the area is anchored by the city’s cathedral (“Como Duomo?”), and we both thought that the interior was absolutely gorgeous, with a sort of geometric cobalt blue-gold star pattern on the ceilings  and two massive, amazing organs perched high on opposite sides of the nave.

Perhaps it was a good thing, but as it turns out, on Monday most of the stores in old Como don’t open until late afternoon, so our credit cards languished as we strolled and window shopped.  Still, it was a delightfully quiet, uncrowded, and absolutely pleasant outing.

.

.

Notice the person in the lower right to get an idea of the scale.

The candle light is wonderful in some of the corners.

.

No pews, just chairs, great window light.

Meanwhile, back outside on the streets, life goes about its everyday bike ride past the large statue. Just like home. Not

It is never to early to start thinking “gelato”!

Everday life on the small back streets.

Como colors.