Who owns Lake Maggiore?

Lake Maggiore is a magnificent lake whose shores extend between Italy and Switzerland. Therefore, Lake Maggiore does not belong to Just one country but is shared by two nations. On the southern side, most of the lake lies in Italy, specifically in the regions of Piedmont and Lombardy. These Italian areas claim about 80% of the water surface. The remaining part, about 20%, extends into the Swiss canton of Ticino. This geographical division makes the lake an international body of water, whose care and management fall under the responsibilities of both countries.

This constellation gives Lake Maggiore a unique transnational identity. The diversity of cultures meeting at its shores contributes to a rich cultural heritage that gives the region its special character. Additionally, shared responsibility promotes cooperation between Italy and Switzerland on environmental and tourism issues, ensuring the preservation of the lake's natural beauty and its surroundings for future generations.