"Lucia": the boat of "The Betrothed"

One of the most famous passages of "The Betrothed" narrates the escape of Renzo, Lucia and Agnese from the threats of Don Rodrigo. In Chapter VIII of the novel, the three characters, on the advice of the frier Cristoforo, leave Pescarenico and then separate once they reach the other shore: the women will go to Monza, while Renzo will go towards Milan. Helped by a charitable boatman, the protagonists cross the waters of the lake on a small boat surmounted by three wooden arches: it is known as the "Batell" in the local dialect and is nowadays the symbol of the Lake, though it is better known as "Lucia", in reference to this episode of the novel.

This type of vessel appeared on the lake for the first time around the 15th century and immediately stood out for its speed, safety and resistance. It was usually used by two fishermen at a time, so that there was enough space for the fishing nets and the goods that the workers transported from one bank to the other to supply the local markets or the local taverns. The three wooden arches were joined by a beam and had the purpose of sheltering the boat with sheets in case of bad weather or excessive sun, so as to protect the men and their catch.

As time passed, however, the Lucia also became a transport boat thanks to the addition of two wooden benches which allowed the presence of around six people, who in this way could safely move from one bank to the other. Since "the Betrothed" became part of Italian literature, Lucia became the symbol of the Lake Como tradition, which is still kept alive today by the numerous parades and celebrations that take place on the lake several times a year, such as those organized by the association amicidelalucia.com. If you also want to put yourself in Renzo and Lucia's shoes and board the Betrothed's boat for a few hours, you could take part in a tour on the Lucia to discover Varenna, the pearl of eastern Lario. For information, see the following link: https://ciceroexperience.com/it/experience/lucia-varenna/