“Surviving demolition and decay the Ex chiostro di Sant’Erasmo stands as a testament to Milan’s resilient history.” Welcome to Piazza Sant’Erasmo home to the remains of the ancient Ex chiostro di Sant’Erasmo. This square offers a glimpse into Milan’s rich past.
The Ex chiostro di Sant’Erasmo dates back to the Middle Ages specifically between 1000 and 1492. This period ended with the discovery of America. Originally a female monastic complex the Conventino-Chiostro di Sant’Erasmo was near the Duomo. It once held vast gardens that later became noble estates. The monastery bordered the Annunciata complex to the north. To the east it stretched to the present-day Via dei Giardini.
Imagine the Ex chiostro di Sant’Erasmo nestled between the fashion district and Brera. It stood just outside the ancient city walls maintaining its monastic character. By the 16th century the convent included a church a bell tower a cloister a hospital gardens and orchards.
Unfortunately the convent began to decline. In 1780 it was officially suppressed. The buildings transformed into workshops storage areas and homes. The devastating bombings of 1943 led to its demolition before reconstruction.
Yet the spirit of the Ex chiostro di Sant’Erasmo lives on. The original layout remains perceptible. The cloister with its round arches serizzo columns and late Gothic capitals stands as the most valuable architectural element.
The FAI Fondo per l’Ambiente Italiano recognized its importance. They undertook a conservation effort led by a leading figure in contemporary architecture. This project aimed to preserve the facade facing Piazza Sant’Erasmo. The Ministry for Cultural Heritage protects the Ex chiostro di Sant’Erasmo. The FAI’s project ensured the preservation of its facade.
Around the Ex chiostro di Sant’Erasmo stately buildings rise featuring white and green granosite facades. These buildings also have polished marble bases commissioned from Studio BBPR the architects behind the Torre Velasca.
A recent restoration has enhanced the Ex chiostro di Sant’Erasmo. It highlights architectural details like the graniglia columns marble floors and clinker decorations. Piazza Sant’Erasmo remains a hidden gem in the city center. It is discreet yet well-connected and historically significant.
The Ex chiostro di Sant’Erasmo is more than just an architectural site. It embodies Milan’s layered history. Surviving centuries of change it invites us to reflect on the past. It stands as a reminder of Milan’s enduring spirit and architectural beauty.