Imagine stepping back in time, to a place where life moved at a slower pace. To a place where the air was filled with the scent of hay and the sound of chickens pecking in the dirt. You are standing before Cascina Sella Nuova. This grand farmhouse, dating back to the 1400s, has witnessed centuries of change in Milan. The courtyard, once bustling with farmhands and livestock, is now quiet and serene. But its past lives on in the weathered stone walls and the gnarled branches of ancient trees.
Cascina Sella Nuova tells a story of agricultural Milan, of a time when the city’s outskirts were a patchwork of fields and farms. Here, generations of families, tending to the land, provided sustenance for a growing city. Today, the cascina has been entrusted to a consortium that aims to revive its spirit. The project, called “Natural-Mente,” embraces a new approach to sustainability, combining the charm of the old with modern innovation.
Within the cascina’s walls, a digital museum will share the history of agriculture in Milan. Nearby, experimental gardens will explore new ways to cultivate food. Children will learn about nature at a dedicated childcare center. The old farmhouse, once abandoned, is being transformed into a vibrant hub for the community. The courtyard will host events, workshops, and gatherings, bridging the gap between the city and the countryside.
Cascina Sella Nuova is a symbol of rebirth, a reminder to appreciate the past and to look towards a future where nature and community thrive. It stands as a testament to the resilience of Milan, a city that adapts and evolves while preserving its heritage.