Cascina Ritirata

Tucked away in Milan’s vibrant landscape, Cascina Linterno whispers tales of centuries past. Imagine standing before this unassuming farmstead, a rare survivor of old Milan. Cascina Linterno, also known as “Infernum,” stands as a testament to a bygone era. This “distant farm” in Lombard, offers a glimpse into the heart of 14th-century life. A letter penned by Francesco Petrarca himself, dated June 20th, either 1360 or 1369, mentions his quiet days spent at a rural retreat he called “Infernum.” Scholars and historians believe this “Infernum” is none other than Cascina Linterno. Petrarca, during his Milanese sojourn from 1353 to 1361, sought refuge within these very walls. He found solace in the tranquility of the countryside, a stark contrast to the bustling city. Cascina Linterno wasn’t just a temporary escape for the poet. It served as a source of inspiration, shaping his thoughts and writings. The farmstead we see today reflects centuries of evolution. It began as a 12th-century grange, possibly linked to monastic orders, perhaps even the Knights Templar. By the late 16th century, the name “Infernum” gradually transformed into “Cascina Linterno,” a testament to the passage of time. The property changed hands over the centuries, passing from the de Marliano family in the 12th century to becoming the property of the City of Milan. The very walls of Cascina Linterno bear witness to this rich history. In the 20th century, Cascina Linterno faced the threat of demolition. Its urban designation, “b2,” paved the way for potential redevelopment. Thanks to the tireless efforts of intellectuals and the “Associazione amici della Cascina Linterno,” the farmstead received monumental and landscape protection, ensuring its survival. It stands as the sole Milanese cascina with this dual protection, safeguarding its historic structure and the surrounding agricultural landscape of Parco delle Cave. Cascina Linterno’s significance isn’t confined to its architectural form or its connection to Petrarca. It represents the enduring spirit of rural life in the heart of a bustling metropolis.