Picture the Cascina dei Pomi a historic Milanese farmhouse. It stands proudly near the Naviglio Martesana canal. This isn’t just any farmhouse. It’s a living testament to Milan’s rich past.
The Cascina dei Pomi meaning “apple farm” in Milanese dialect has a long and fascinating history. Some believe its name comes from the apple orchards Francesco Sforza planted in the 15th century. Others say it’s named after the De Pomi family its first owners.
The noble Marino family later acquired the Cascina dei Pomi. Its enviable location made it a perfect country retreat. Giovanni Marino a banker who moved to Milan during Charles V’s reign owned it. His daughter Virginia married Martino de Leyva. Their daughter Marianna inspired Alessandro Manzoni’s character the Monaca di Monza in I Promessi Sposi. The De Leyva family expanded the main house. They turned it into a luxurious summer residence.
The Cascina dei Pomi’s strategic location along the Milan-Monza route made it a bustling place. In the 18th century it became a waystation for horses. They hauled goods along the Naviglio Martesana. This continued until modern transport replaced it.
Famous guests stayed at the Cascina dei Pomi. It served as a hotel. Stendhal Giacomo Casanova and Carlo Porta mentioned it in their works. Even Giuseppe Garibaldi and Napoleon Bonaparte are said to have spent nights there. Later it became a popular restaurant. It was a fashionable spot for politicians and celebrities during Milan’s “Milano da bere” era.
A small iron bridge near the Cascina dei Pomi holds a special charm. Locals call it “el pont del pan fiss” the safe bread bridge. This was due to the nearby Bonomi candle factory. The factory provided safe jobs for its workers. World War II bombings and economic changes led to its closure. Now a park occupies the factory site. The factory walls still remain. They delineate the park’s boundaries.
The Cascina dei Pomi is the endpoint of a scenic cycling and walking path. It starts in Trezzo sull’Adda. It follows the Naviglio Martesana until it disappears under Via Melchiorre Gioia.
Today the main Cascina dei Pomi buildings serve as residences. A bar stands in the former hotel and restaurant. Offices occupy what was once a trendy restaurant. The Cascina dei Pomi remains a captivating blend of history and modern life. It stands as a reminder of Milan’s past grandeur.