Have you ever stepped into a place where time seems to slow down? Welcome to Bì La fabbrica del gioco e delle arti in Cormano a short train ride from Milan. This isn’t just a building. It’s a vibrant hub a testament to a mayor’s visionary investment in children’s culture. Bì houses a remarkable blend of spaces dedicated entirely to the joy of childhood.
Bì La fabbrica del gioco e delle arti opened seven years ago. It’s a unique center unlike any other in Italy. Imagine a former cotton mill its history woven into the very fabric of its walls. Today it thrives as a multi-purpose space combining a children’s library a puppet theatre and a toy museum. This one-of-a-kind complex seamlessly blends the past with the present. The 30-meter-high chimney a relic of the mill’s industrial past stands as a proud symbol.
Inside Bì you’ll find more than just exhibits. The Biblioteca Civica Ragazzi the children’s library boasts over 15000 books and multimedia resources. This isn’t your average library. It hosts regular storytelling events creative workshops and even courses in foreign languages and music. Families are the heart of Bì’s weekend activities. They flock here to enjoy theatre performances and explore the museum’s captivating collection.
The Teatro del Buratto a Milanese institution since 1975 calls Bì its home. It presents a diverse program of high-quality children’s theatre from across Italy. Their performances explore themes of nature friendship and the power of imagination. The theatre also runs creative workshops for children and teenagers. These aim to develop their creativity and boost self-awareness.
Then there’s the Museo del Giocattolo e del Bambino the Toy and Child Museum. Established in 1982 it’s Italy’s first museum of its kind. It houses approximately 1500 original toys from the 18th to 20th centuries. The exhibits are rotated regularly ensuring a fresh experience each visit. The museum also offers educational workshops where children learn to create their own toys using recycled materials. Think of it as a hands-on journey through the history of play.
Bì isn’t just about individual experiences. It’s about the synergy between these three elements. The museum the theatre and the library work together to provide a rich and unforgettable experience for families and schools alike. This is what makes Bì La fabbrica del gioco e delle arti so special. It’s a place where children’s imaginations flourish. A place where dreams are made. It’s a place you must experience for yourself.