After a meticulous refit lasting around two years, carried out by the skilled craftsmen of Casa del Motore, the Piroscafo Piemonte—a true gem of early 20th-century naval engineering and art, launched in 1904—has returned to navigating the waters of Lake Maggiore. This historic vessel, the oldest steam-powered paddle steamer still in service in Italy, recently celebrated its official relaunch in Arona following a restoration that involved the boilers, wheelhouse, exterior decks, and interior finishes, all completed with great attention to the original details.
The return to service was made even more meaningful by an honorary role: on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, the Piemonte served as a torchbearer for the Milano–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, transporting the Olympic flame across the waters of Lake Maggiore toward Isola Bella in one of the most symbolic moments of the torch relay (ansa.it).
During the passage, the torch was welcomed along the lake’s shores and historic villages, with the participation of Olympic athletes and local authorities, highlighting the cultural and symbolic value of this piece of Italian maritime history.
This extraordinary moment brings together history, sport, and territory, celebrating the Piemonte’s past, the craftsmanship of Casa del Motore, and Italy’s future on the international stage of the Olympic Games.