Once upon a time did families live together here in Milan? This is Cascina Lodolina. It is a testament to the city’s evolving story. Today we will explore the historical importance and surprising survival of this farmhouse.
Cascina Lodolina whispers tales of a time when Milan was less metropolitan. A time when farmsteads dotted the landscape outside the city center. Many of these farmsteads disappeared due to Milan’s urban sprawl. Cascina Lodolina is a surprising exception. It stands as a proud reminder of the past.
The area around Cascina Lodolina was once full of farmsteads. These farmsteads did not survive Milan’s urban development. However, one small corner has resisted this process. It surprises passers-by with its historic character.
The name Cascina delle Abbadesse is universally known as Cassin Baess. It is located at the crossroads of the old farmstead. The church of Santi Carlo e Vitale remains a testimony to the rural hub. This area remained unchanged until the start of the twentieth century.
The first mention of Cassin Baess is in a medieval document. It reveals its history as closely tied to the adjacent Augustinian convent. The agricultural land surrounding the farmsteads belonged to the convent. It was referred to as Terre delle Abbadesse. That is where the name comes from. The area was well-frequented. A column hosting a cross was erected there. This was typical where there were lots of visitors for religious celebrations. It occurred around the time of the counter-reformation.
In the early eighteenth century Countess Mariani patronized the chapel. It was added at the site of the cross. The chapel was dedicated to saints Vitale and Carlo Borromeo. Later the adjacent rectory completed it. The church survived political upheaval. Today it is protected by the cultural-heritage authority. It still hosts Sunday mass. It enchants visitors with its wonderful eighteenth-century frescoes.
Fortunately, the Cascina Abbadesse farmstead also survived. At the start of the twentieth century, it became residential. It divided into typical Milanese case di ringhiera apartments. Many families lived together there. Today, it is privately owned. It is primarily used as a bed and breakfast.
Here on this historic crossroads, a thousand stories played out. For a moment, it feels like you are far from Milan. Cascina Lodolina stands as a symbol. It is a symbol of resilience. It is a symbol of Milan’s ability to preserve its heritage. Even amidst progress. As you stand here remember the families. Remember the farmers. Remember the history that echoes within these walls. Cascina Lodolina is not just a building. It is a living piece of Milan’s soul.