Tempio Volta, Como

Tempio Volta, Como

Built in 1927 to commemorate the centennial of Como native and prolific scientist Alessandro Volta's death, the Tempio Voltiano is a Neoclassical temple that now houses a museum.

Built in 1927 to commemorate the centennial of Como native and prolific scientist Alessandro Volta's death, the Tempio Voltiano is a Neoclassical temple that now houses a museum. The Pantheon-inspired building designed by Federico Frigerio once featured on the back of the 10,000 lire note, while Volta's portrait was on the front. The façade features 4 Corinthian columns in Auristina stone above which the architrave has 'A Volta' inscribed. The portico has a commemorative tablet, and statues of Science and Faith flanking the entrance. It leads into a circular hall of 12 metres diameter, topped by a coffered cupola with a central glass panel through which sunlight filters in. There are 8 marble Corinthian columns holding up the dome, while the architrave is inscribed with the dedication in gilt bronze. There are 4 high-relief panels in stucco work by Pietro Clerici illustrating episodes from Volta's life.

The ground floor has old scientific instruments related to physics experiments carried out by Volta, including early voltaic piles of alternating silver and zinc disks that acted as batteries, frog skeletons, instruments, papers and letters. The first floor showcases his personal belongings and honors conferred on him.