Imagine yourself stepping onto the grounds of Cascina Monastero, a place steeped in history and rustic charm. Cascina Monastero, its name hinting at its past as a monastery, is nestled in the Baggio district of Milan. It stands as a testament to the city’s rich agricultural heritage, a time when the landscape surrounding Milan was dotted with farms and monasteries. Once a bustling center of farming activity, Cascina Monastero has evolved over the centuries. It was built in the 15th century by Balzarino Pusterla, a relative of the powerful Visconti family. The strategic location near the Castello di Cusago made it a desirable spot for a monastery.
Cascina Monastero became a haven for Olivetan monks, who dedicated their lives to prayer and contemplation. They built a magnificent complex of three courtyards, surrounded by walls, each dedicated to a specific purpose, one for farming.
The monks lived a simple life, their days filled with tending to the fields and working the silkworms in the filanda. They produced their own silk, transforming the delicate threads into luxurious fabrics. However, life at the monastery didn’t always run smoothly.
Cascina Monastero flourished until the late 18th century, when the monastery was closed. The property was handed over to a private owner who continued the farm’s tradition. Fast forward to the 1950s, Cascina Monastero still held much of its charm and function. It became a bustling hub accommodating more than 100 people.
But the years took their toll, and Cascina Monastero began to fall into disrepair. Thankfully, the city of Milan recognized its historical significance, and in 1960, purchased the property.
Today, after meticulous renovation, Cascina Monastero serves a different purpose, housing the local government and serving as a cultural center. The old monastery still whispers of its past life – the impressive brick facades, the arched loggias, and the remnants of the ancient cloister. You can still see hints of its original grandeur.