Monumento alla Resistenza Europea (Monument to the European Resistance), Como

Gianni Colombo is a sculptor and protagonist of post-World War II contemporary art. He was invited in the 1980s to submit a project for a memorial to victims of the war. He created a monument that was "not only visible but livable."

Three separate staircases go up to an "absent" center. From here may be seen leaning metal tablets inscribed with bits of notes written by people condemned to death in the concentration camps of World War II. The steps, as well as the metal tablets, are inclined at different angles. This lining upsets the sense of balance of the visitor.

This imbalance creates a state of paresthesia and physical amazement. The monument, therefore, becomes a livable space that produces a collective bewilderment meant to induce a dialogue on Resistance. Translations of the notes in seven languages are provided on the marble slabs alongside the stairs.

Stones taken from the various death camps and the city of Hiroshima are also included in the monument. The memorial, located in Como city park, was inaugurated in May 1983 by Italy's then President, Sandro Pertini.