Mergozzo is a tiny place, sandwiched between the mountains and the lake, with a population of 2,135 and a cluster of houses which nestle beside each other.
Their design defies any sense of planning and they spread out in all directions.
And for the unwary tourist they hold surprises, like the way they make a road a dead end, simply by growing out of their neighbour.
Added to which because the old town hugs the side of the mountain, the streets climb up in long stretches of stairs, disappearing into the shadows.
Beyond this old bit of the town, are new houses which are neat boxes following a common plan with equally neat gardens to front and back and an ample place for a car.
This last feature is in distinct contrast to the old town where because of the twisty narrow streets car spaces are at a premium.
And that adds to the charm of the place, where you are never far from the sound of the water lapping the stone wall by the lake, or the careless conversations of locals and tourists in the town square.
Location; Mergozzo
Pictures; Mergozza, 2018, from the collection of Andrew Simpson
And for the unwary tourist they hold surprises, like the way they make a road a dead end, simply by growing out of their neighbour.
Added to which because the old town hugs the side of the mountain, the streets climb up in long stretches of stairs, disappearing into the shadows.
Beyond this old bit of the town, are new houses which are neat boxes following a common plan with equally neat gardens to front and back and an ample place for a car.
This last feature is in distinct contrast to the old town where because of the twisty narrow streets car spaces are at a premium.
And that adds to the charm of the place, where you are never far from the sound of the water lapping the stone wall by the lake, or the careless conversations of locals and tourists in the town square.
Location; Mergozzo
Pictures; Mergozza, 2018, from the collection of Andrew Simpson
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