About Us

The Church of the Ascension, Cadenabbia,  has long been regarded as one of jewels-in-the-crown of the Diocese in Europe and services in English have been held there for well over 100 years. Situated on the western lakeshore, the building is the masterpiece of Giorgio Brentano, a young Italian architect. It was completed and consecrated in 1891.

It is wholly self supporting and is looked after by a small, but enthusiastic congregation of residents and holiday home owners.  It is open from Easter to September each year, with a resident priest from Milan or beyond. It is a beautiful place to worship, with an historic organ, stunning stained glass and a nave of gold mosaics. It is worth visiting for a look around as in season it is open during the day, usually 10am to 5pm. Services of Holy Communion are held on Sundays at 10.30am, but check our calendar as early in the season they are not every week.

The church community has an active social calendar. It is an excellent place to meet other English speaking people from all over the world and make new friendships. 

The church has a very active summer concert program either through its own efforts or within the Lake Como Festival, due to its excellent acoustic. More details on our website.

Wedding Blessings

The Anglican Church in Italy cannot perform legal marriage ceremonies. However, couples are welcome to have their civil marriages blessed in the church. The Church of the Ascension continues to be in great demand for wedding blessings from couples from all over the world due to its beautiful location, together with excellent accommodation and reception locations in Villas and local hotels on the lake. Services for the renewal of marriage vows are also popular, as well as couples having their children baptized.
Enquiries for these are welcomed. The church requests a fixed donation towards running costs and maintenance. This includes use of the church, chaplain and organist, a simple application form will be provided on request. Payments are made by electronic transfer with a deposit after the application has been accepted. More details on our website.