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Exatly halfway down the eastern shore of the lake, right opposite the mouth of the Como branch, lies Varenna. Like a sentry standing at the crossroad of the lake, it was built on a rock promontory overshadowed by a steep mountain, at the top of which you can make out the dark outline of an old ruined castle. Varenna is an unusual place: one the one hand, it is a lively and modern tourist resort, the centre for all the lake ferries, and on the other it preserves the remains of a medieval past which is one of the best conserved in the area.The church of S. Giovanni Battista, dating back to 10th-11th century, is one of the oldest in Lario, while the Prepositura of S. Giorgio dates from the 12th century. But you will also be enchanted by varenna's unusual attractions: Villa Monastero, which was once a convent for Cistercian nuns, is now an important international research centre; Villa Cipressi, a 16th century complex with buildings and gardens; the 17th century churches of S. Marta and S. Maria delle Grazie, both face onto the main square. More inquisitive visitors may be tempted to visit the Ornithological Museum in the rooms of the old Palazzo Venini. Lastly, if you enjoy Guiness Records, don't forget to see the shortest river in Italy: the Fiumematte is only 250 metres long and only runs for 6 months a year.
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