“What secrets do the igloo houses whisper?” That’s the question that echoed in my mind as I stood before Quartiere Maggiolina in Milan. This charming residential neighborhood is a hidden gem a delightful mix of architectural styles. It’s a surprising blend of tranquility and urban life.
Quartiere Maggiolina’s name itself sparks curiosity. Some say it’s from the Maggiolini family. They were Florentine silk artisans who arrived in Milan in the 15th century. Others suggest it originates from “magister” the Milanese dialect word for strawberries. Strawberries once thrived on this land.
The area’s history is interwoven with the Milan-Monza railway. It’s Italy’s second oldest railway line. The railway arrived in the mid-19th century transforming the area. In 1920 the old farmhouse Cascina Maggiolina was demolished. This made way for modern development. By the 1960s the railway was buried. A large green area was created reflecting the “garden city” concept. This aimed to improve urban life with more livable spaces. That green space is still a defining feature of Quartiere Maggiolina.
The architectural diversity is stunning. Villa Mirabello a magnificent brick structure from the 1400s is a must-see. The Visconti family used it as a hunting lodge. Today it houses an association for the blind. You can see original frescoes period furniture and even a small church.
Then there’s the stilt house designed by Luigi Figini. It’s on Via Perrone di San Martino. This Rationalist masterpiece stands on twelve pillars over four meters tall. It’s a prime example of Italian Rationalist architecture.
And of course there are the igloo houses on Via Lepanto. Engineer Mario Cavallè designed these unique structures after World War II. He was inspired by American building models. These circular concrete homes were a solution to the housing shortage. They are now an iconic symbol of Quartiere Maggiolina. Sadly Cavallè’s “mushroom houses” from the same period were demolished in the 1960s.
Quartiere Maggiolina is more than just buildings. It’s a community. Historic stores offer a warm village atmosphere. Restaurants like A’ Riccione known for its fresh fish and Pasticceria Martesana a prize-winning pastry shop. They reflect the local life. This neighborhood is a delightful mix of old and new. Its charm is irresistible. It offers a tranquil escape in the heart of bustling Milan. The contrast between the neighborhood’s intimacy and Milan’s vibrant city life is what makes Quartiere Maggiolina truly unique.