Stresa was originally a small fishing village on the western shore of Lake Maggiore, first mentioned in 998 AD as "Strixia".

In the 16th century, the Borromeo family, powerful rulers of the region, built a fortress and a palace in Stresa, transforming it into a fortified town.

Stresa played a significant role in Italian history, hosting the Stresa Conference in 1935, where Italy, France, and the United Kingdom discussed the rise of Nazi Germany and fascism in Europe.

The town experienced rapid growth in the 19th century due to the development of tourism and the construction of the Simplon Railway Tunnel, connecting Italy and Switzerland.

Today, Stresa is a renowned tourist destination known for its picturesque setting, charming villas, and beautiful gardens along the lakefront.

The population of Stresa has steadily increased over the past decades, reaching approximately 4,800 permanent residents.

The town's economy primarily relies on tourism, with numerous hotels, restaurants, and shops catering to visitors.

Stresa is home to several historical landmarks, including the Borromeo Palace, the Villa Pallavicino, and the Church of Sant'Ambrogio.

The Borromeo Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its exquisite Renaissance architecture and beautiful gardens overlooking Lake Maggiore.

Stresa hosts the annual Stresa Music Festival, showcasing classical and contemporary music performances in various venues throughout the town.

The local cuisine of Stresa reflects its proximity to Lake Maggiore, featuring fresh fish dishes, locally produced meats, and cheeses.

The town has a strong sense of community, with many local traditions and festivals celebrated throughout the year.

Stresa's scientific contributions include the development of the Stresa Criteria, used to define the severity of myocardial infarction.

The town has produced notable figures in various fields, including the artist Gianfranco Ferroni, the writer Antonio Fogazzaro, and the politician Carlo Luigi Moroni.

Stresa continues to be a vibrant cultural and tourist hub on the shores of Lake Maggiore, offering a blend of history, nature, and modern amenities.