Civil ceremony in Lake Como: our tips to organize the wedding

Getting married in Lake Como

Lake Como is one of the scenarios that most fascinate couples, whatever their country of origin. Often the dream is to get married right in front of so much beauty. But how to organize a legally valid wedding on the shores of Lake Como? In this article we give you some more information.

Where to organize a civil wedding in Lake Como

The spectacle of Lake Como, which changes from season to season, is often chosen as the backdrop for the most beautiful day by many couples. However, there are not many venues in Lake Como that allow the couple to organize the wedding ceremony on site and enjoy this splendid view.

Often the only rite allowed is the symbolic one that does not require the presence of a religious officiant or a municipal delegate and leaves the couple the maximum freedom to create a tailor-made ceremony. The organization of a non-Catholic religious wedding is also easier. As for the legally valid civil ceremony, the question is more complex.

Civil wedding in Italy

According to Italian law, it is possible to marry with a civil ceremony at the municipal offices or at some places indicated as “municipal house”, or a structure that is in the legal availability of the Municipality, as well as bound to the performance of institutional functions.

The civil ceremony in Lake Como is therefore only possible in a few and specific villas that directly overlook the lake. In particular, among these there are Villa del Balbianello, in the municipality of Tremezzina, and Villa Pizzo, in the municipality of Cernobbio. The only alternative are the town halls of the picturesque villages surrounding the lake. They are certainly impressive, but they do not include the breathtaking views that can be enjoyed from the villas.

Civil wedding at Villa del Balbianello

Among the most beautiful locations where to organize a civil wedding in Lake Como, Villa del Balbianello cannot be missed. This villa, overlooking the shores of the lake, is a wonderful museum included among the sites of the Fondo Ambiente Italiano.

In addition to being open to the public, it is possible to reserve the villa for the day of your wedding and have a legally valid wedding ceremony with the panorama of Lake Como as a backdrop. Participation is reserved for a maximum of 150 guests who can also arrive at the villa by boat: a truly spectacular entrance to start the event in the right spirit of joy and wonder.

Civil wedding ceremony at Villa Pizzo

Villa Pizzo, refined and elegant, is a truly charming location for all couples who dream of saying their most important “yes” surrounded by an unparalleled natural landscape: the magnificent shores of Lake Como.

The civil wedding ceremony takes place in the panoramic garden in front of the villa which, given its size, is often used also for aperitifs and receptions. This way the lake and its wonders are always visible, throughout the day, and will be the magical background of the wedding photos. Alternatively, even in the neoclassical interior rooms you can enjoy a beautiful view thanks to the large windows.