Lost in the maze of Milan’s northern suburbs you find yourself in Affori. This isn’t just any neighborhood. Affori boasts a history stretching back to 915. Its name itself a mystery. Was it named after a Roman Afer a local market or perhaps a spring? Some even suggest it means outside referring to its church San Giustina a foris. Affori was once its own commune. Independent until 1923 when it became part of Milan.
Imagine Affori’s past. A rural borgo with a 14th-century watchtower still standing on Via Osculati. The historic heart of Affori lies where Via Taccioli and Via Cialdini meet. Life here centered on agriculture especially mulberry cultivation for sericulture. Affori’s fortunes shifted dramatically in 1686. Pier Paolo Corbella the new Duke of Affori built Villa Litta. This magnificent villa spurred economic growth making Affori largely dependent on the villa’s prosperity.
The 18th and 19th centuries brought further change. A new road linking Milan to Como passed through Affori. This transformed Affori into a key settlement north of Milan. A brief return to independence followed Napoleonic rule. Then in 1869 Affori merged with Bruzzano and Dergano forming Affori e uniti. Bresso later separated. Affori continued to thrive becoming de facto part of Milan by the early 20th century. The construction of railways and tramways strengthened the city’s connection with Affori.
Today Affori thrives with its rich history evident everywhere. Villa Litta a 17th-century marvel stands within a park a testament to Affori’s aristocratic past. Santa Giustina church holds a painting possibly by Ambrogio de Predis. Its style recalls Leonardo da Vinci’s Virgin of the Rocks a true treasure. The church also houses an organ crafted by the renowned Amati family. Affori also boasts a vibrant art scene the Paolo Pini Gallery showcases contemporary artists. The Affori Library a vast collection of children’s literature and comics is a testament to the community’s values.
Affori even has its own historic community band the Corpo Musicale Gaetano Donizetti. Founded in 1853 it continues to delight residents and visitors alike. This is Affori a blend of history culture and community. A neighborhood that whispers tales of its past while embracing its future. A true gem in the heart of Milan.