Whispers of history linger here at the Chiesa di Sant’Antonino. This wasn’t always a place of quiet prayer. Centuries ago Franciscan nuns resided here. Their convent thrived under the Visconti. They were known for their devotion to Saint Francis. The Visconti even promoted the construction of six female monasteries in Milan. This was one of them. However records confirming this are scarce.
In 1502 the convent became known as the convent of the Servants of Saint Mary. Dedicated to the Visitation it continued its quiet existence. By 1549 the nuns added Saint Anthony of Padua to their patron saints. They called him Sant’Antonino to avoid confusion with another saint. The church underwent renovations towards the end of the 16th century. The Torre describes it as a single nave church with two side chapels. It housed paintings by Duchino and Antonio Campi.
A wooden tabernacle held a polychrome wooden sculpture of Saint Francis. The monastery itself was described as comfortable. It boasted beautiful greenery and a lovely view of the Naviglio canal. The serenity changed dramatically in 1784. Joseph II converted the convent into a hospital. It cared for both men and women who could afford to pay. The hospital also treated patients with syphilis and those with severe mental illnesses. These patients couldn’t find space in the Senavra the former women’s asylum.
The Chiesa di Sant’Antonino’s story ends sadly. It was demolished in 1925. The land was needed for the construction of the Policlinico hospital. The peaceful convent the bustling hospital its eventual demolition. Each stage left a unique mark on this location a silent testament to Milan’s ever-changing landscape. The spirit of Sant’Antonino however remains. It lives on in the memories of those who once sought solace or healing within its walls.