SOAZZA
Soazza has its beginning in the 12th century. Cimavilla itself is circa 1335 at least. Soazza has a sub-tropical climate with abundant sun, clean air, and palm, fig, and chestnut trees, as well as vineyards, alpine peaks, and rushing waters. Proximity to the Swiss-Italian lake district means that Lakes Como, Lugano, Maggiore, and Varese are less than an hour’s drive away.
Soazza is the jewel of the Mesolcina Valley. With a population of only 350, it has two churches. San Martino Church (1219/1626 restored) sits on a promontory overlooking the Valley, has a world-class organ, and is lighted at night and is seen from the Valley below and from Cimavilla. San Rocco Church (1419/1633 restored) and the Ospizio di Soazza (1639/2006 restored), a former Capuchin monastery are likewise protected by the Hague Convention in the event of armed conflict. Soazza has four private residences, including Cimavilla, also protected by the Hague Convention.Soazza looks north 2 km. to Mesocco Castle (1481) which, like San Martino church, is lighted at night for travelers along the Valley floor and it too is seen from Cimavilla.