Lecco’s Underpasses Transformed into Artistic Murals: Community Stories on Canvas

September 1, 2025

Recent Vandalism Sparks Community Action

Olginate, Italy – A series of disheartening acts of vandalism have recently impacted several locations across the Lecco province, prompting swift reactions from local volunteers and authorities. This week’s news focuses on the renewed defacement of the Olginate underpass on Via Santa Maria, just after it underwent restorative work completed by the Piedibus volunteer group.

The damage has inspired a unique response: transforming reports of the vandalism into public murals. This initiative aims to raise awareness and deter future incidents, with organizers hoping the artistic display will discourage further damage to public property.

Regional Highlights: A Snapshot of Recent Events

Beyond Olginate, other communities are also experiencing notable developments. Casargo is currently hosting an exhibition dedicated to Enrico Carozzi, a local figure. Additionally, repairs are scheduled for the custodian’s cabin at the Paradone Dam in Lecco, addressing long-standing maintenance needs.

In Casatenovo, the ‘Flame of Youth,’ blessed by the Pope, has been returned to its original location, marking a significant event for the community. Meanwhile, Cassago is supporting an initiative dubbed “Cassago Calls chernobyl,” facilitating a visit for 25 children affected by the disaster to the Alto Adige region.

Resegone mountain is the backdrop for a joint celebration between Lecco and Bergamo, commemorating the 100th anniversary of a local landmark.Furthermore, Merate recently hosted a captivating “Cartoon Music” festival, drawing crowds with its vibrant performances and engaging atmosphere. Robbiate is celebrating the achievements of Francesco Piccinini,who secured medals at the World Swimming Championships in Bangkok.

Key events at a glance

Location	Event
Olginate	Underpass Vandalism & Mural Initiative
Casargo	Enrico Carozzi Exhibition
Lecco	Paradone Dam Cabin Repairs
Casatenovo	Return of ‘Flame of Youth’
Cassago	Chernobyl Children’s Visit to Alto Adige

Combating Vandalism: A growing Concern

Vandalism represents a persistent challenge for communities worldwide, resulting in financial burdens for taxpayers and diminishing the quality of public spaces. According to a 2024 report by the U.S. Department of Justice, the cost of vandalism exceeds billions of dollars annually. Proactive measures like community art projects, improved lighting, and increased surveillance can considerably deter such acts.

Did you Know?: Studies have shown that areas with vibrant public art installations experience lower rates of vandalism.

The response in Olginate exemplifies a constructive approach to addressing vandalism. By transforming a negative situation into a platform for artistic expression, the community sends a clear message about its values and resilience.

Pro Tip: Reporting vandalism promptly to local authorities is crucial for securing repairs and potentially identifying perpetrators.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vandalism

What constitutes vandalism?

Vandalism typically involves the intentional damage or destruction of property belonging to another person or the public. This can include graffiti,broken windows,or damage to public art.

What are the penalties for vandalism?

Penalties for vandalism vary depending on the severity of the damage and local laws. They can range from fines to imprisonment.

How can communities prevent vandalism?

Communities can prevent vandalism through increased surveillance, improved lighting, public art projects, and community watch programs.

What should you do if you witness vandalism?

If you witness vandalism, report it to the local police immediately. Do not attempt to intervene directly.

Is there a link between community engagement and reduced vandalism?

Yes,higher levels of community engagement and social cohesion are frequently enough associated with lower rates of vandalism.

What are your thoughts on using art as a response to vandalism? How do you think communities can best work together to prevent these incidents?

What specific strategies were employed to mitigate initial concerns regarding vandalism and the durability of the murals?

From Concrete to canvas: The Lecco Mural Project

Lecco, a beautiful city nestled at the foot of the Alps and on the southeastern arm of Lake Como (Lago di Lecco), is undergoing a vibrant transformation. What was once a network of often-overlooked and sometimes neglected underpasses is now a stunning outdoor art gallery, showcasing the stories and spirit of the local community. This Lecco mural project isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a powerful example of urban regeneration through public art. Located 55km northeast of Milan and 30km east of Como, Lecco is increasingly recognized for its commitment to cultural initiatives.

The Genesis of the Project: Addressing Urban Spaces

The initiative began in early 2024, driven by a collaboration between the Comune di Lecco (Lecco Municipality), local artists, and community groups. The primary goal was to reclaim underutilized urban spaces and address issues of safety and perceived neglect. Dark, uninviting underpasses were identified as areas ripe for advancement. Instead of simply improving lighting or security, the city opted for a more creative and engaging solution: large-scale murals.

Initial Concerns: Vandalism and the longevity of the artwork were initial concerns.

Mitigation Strategies: The use of anti-graffiti coatings and the involvement of local artists, fostering a sense of ownership, were key to addressing these concerns.

Funding Sources: The project was funded through a combination of municipal budgets, regional arts grants, and private sponsorships from local businesses.

Themes and Artistic Styles: Reflecting lecco’s Identity

The murals aren’t a random collection of images. Each artwork was carefully selected to reflect Lecco’s history, culture, and the lived experiences of its residents. Several key themes emerged:

Industrial Heritage: lecco has a strong industrial past, especially in textiles and steel production. Several murals depict scenes from this era, honoring the workers and innovations that shaped the city.Lecco industrial art is a growing niche.

Lake Como & Natural Beauty: The stunning landscape surrounding Lecco – the lake, the mountains, the lush greenery – is a recurring motif. these murals celebrate the natural environment and promote ecotourism.

Community Portraits: Perhaps the most impactful aspect of the project is the inclusion of portraits of local residents. These aren’t famous figures; they’re everyday people – shopkeepers, teachers, artisans – whose stories contribute to the fabric of lecco. Community-based art is central to the project’s success.

Historical Events: Murals commemorate significant events in Lecco’s history, from its role in the Italian Risorgimento to more recent local milestones.

Artistic styles vary widely,ranging from photorealistic portraits to abstract compositions and vibrant street art techniques. This diversity adds to the richness and appeal of the Lecco art scene.

Impact and Benefits: Beyond Aesthetics

The transformation of Lecco’s underpasses has yielded a multitude of benefits:

Increased Foot Traffic: the murals have become a destination in themselves, attracting both locals and tourists. Underpasses that were once avoided are now bustling with people taking photos and admiring the artwork.

Enhanced Safety: Improved visibility and increased foot traffic have contributed to a greater sense of safety in these areas.

Reduced Vandalism: Surprisingly, vandalism has decreased considerably.The murals have fostered a sense of respect for public spaces.

Community Pride: The project has instilled a strong sense of pride among Lecco residents, who feel a greater connection to their city.

Tourism Boost: The unique art installations are attracting art enthusiasts and tourists, contributing to the local economy.lecco tourism is benefiting from this cultural attraction.

Practical Tips for Visitors: Exploring the Mural Route

Planning a visit to experience Lecco’s mural route? Hear are a few tips:

1. Start at the Train Station: Many of the most prominent murals are located near the Lecco train station, making it a convenient starting point.
2. Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking!
3. Bring Your Camera: The murals are incredibly photogenic.
4. Check the Comune di Lecco Website: The municipality frequently enough publishes maps and details about the mural project.
5. Allow Several Hours: To fully appreciate the artwork, allow at least half a day for your exploration.
6. Combine with Lake Como Exploration: Extend your visit to explore the beauty of Lake Como.

Case Study: The “Faces of Lecco” Mural

One particularly impactful mural,located under the Via Cantarelli underpass,is titled “faces of Lecco.” Created by local artist Elena Rossi,the mural features a mosaic of portraits of over 50 Lecco residents,representing a diverse cross-section of the community. Rossi spent months interviewing and photographing residents, capturing their stories and personalities. The mural has become a symbol of the project’s commitment to inclusive art and community engagement. Rossi’s work exemplifies the power of *portrait