“Imagine, standing here, surrounded by the serene landscape of Parco della Vettabbia. This is Cascina San Bernardo.
Cascina San Bernardo is more than just a farmhouse. It’s a testament to Milan’s agricultural history. This place whispers tales of a bygone era.
Let’s step back in time. The early 1900s saw the Lovati brothers construct this very cascina between 1918 and 1922. They envisioned a functional farm. Two buildings were erected opposite each other. Together they formed a courtyard, the heart of the cascina.
To the west stood the residences. The building to the east housed stables and warehouses. Notice the two symmetrical towers on the eastern side. They once served as dwellings. Their square layout gave the farm a fortified appearance.
For decades, Cascina San Bernardo thrived. In 1965, the Municipality of Milan acquired the property. Until the 1990s, it was a hub of horticultural and zootechnical activities. Cows grazed. Crops flourished. The nearby Abbazia di Chiaravalle benefited from the fertile land.
Look around you. Can you imagine the “marcita”, a large irrigation meadow, stretching towards the Abbey? A medieval orchard once stood nearby too. These elements painted a picture of rural life.
The cascina’s connection to water is vital. The Nosedo collector borders three sides of the property. This channeled water from the Vettabbia river. It was an ingenious system.
The late 20th century brought change. The zootechnical activities ceased in the 1970s. However, the horticultural vocation continued until the 1990s. Cascina San Bernardo faced an uncertain future.
But, a new chapter began in 2015. The Società Umanitaria took over via a public tender. Their vision? A farm and cultural education center. They aimed to connect children and young people with agricultural life. Workshops and training courses were planned.
Take a look at the back. The “garden of ancient fruits” was recently planted. The old “marcita” has been restored. The cascina remains structurally unchanged.
The rehabilitation project is designed to be transparent. New elements are clearly distinct in materials and colors. Cascina San Bernardo will become an open book about restoration. It will showcase agriculture, food production, and tourism.
Cascina San Bernardo stands as a symbol. It represents the enduring link between Milan and its agricultural roots. It is a place where the past informs the future. It will educate generations to come.”