Life Electric
Life Electric: A Monument to Innovation and Nature
Life Electric: A Modern Homage to Volta on Lake Como
A stunning contemporary sculpture on Lake Como honoring Alessandro Volta, inventor of the electric battery.
Life Electric is a contemporary sculpture by Daniel Libeskind, located on the Diga Foranea (breakwater) in Lake Como, Italy. Completed in 2015, the stainless steel artwork pays tribute to Alessandro Volta, the renowned physicist and inventor of the electric battery, who was born in Como.
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A brief summary to Life Electric
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
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Getting There
Walking
From Piazza Cavour, walk towards the lakefront and follow the path along the water towards Diga Foranea Piero Caldirola. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and offers beautiful views of the lake. There are no costs involved.
Public Transport
From Como Lago train station, walk towards Piazza Cavour (about 5 minutes). From there, follow the walking directions to Diga Foranea Piero Caldirola. A single ticket for the local bus costs around €1.30. However, walking is a convenient and scenic option.
Taxi
A taxi from Como San Giovanni train station to Piazza Cavour, near the Diga Foranea, will cost approximately €10-€15. From Piazza Cavour, follow the walking directions to the sculpture.
Local tips
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Visit at sunset for stunning views of the sculpture with the lake and mountains in the background.
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Take a walk along the Diga Foranea for a closer look at the sculpture and enjoy panoramic views of Como.
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Check out the lighting system at night, which creates a beautiful display.
Discover more about Life Electric
Life Electric, a striking sculpture by Daniel Libeskind, graces the end of the Diga Foranea pier in Como, Italy. Inaugurated in October 2015, the monument stands as a tribute to Alessandro Volta, Como's celebrated son and the inventor of the electric battery.
The sculpture's design is inspired by the electric tension between the poles of a battery, reflecting Volta's groundbreaking invention. The two opposing sine wave-like forms, constructed from stainless steel, reach a height of approximately 13.75 meters (45.1 feet), creating a visually arresting landmark against the backdrop of Lake Como. At night, the sculpture is illuminated, creating a spectacle of light and shadow.
Commissioned by the non-profit organization Amici di Como, Life Electric has become an integral part of Como's skyline. It symbolizes the connection between art, science, and the region's natural beauty, serving as a reminder of Como's rich history of innovation. The sculpture also creates a symbolic 'third pole' between the Voltiano Temple museum and the Volta Lighthouse.
A brief summary to Life Electric
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