He collected ancient popular tales, he published articles and books about Lombard history, monographies on artistic monuments or historical families, like the thrilling and curious story of brothers Mazzardi ("I fratelli della Malpaga"), five pirates who in early 15th century settled in the castles of Cannero and terrorized the whole Lago Maggiore.
Born in Germignaga near Luino, Italy, he specially devoted his work to Middle Ages and modern local history of Lago Maggiore.