Hidden within Parco Nord Milano lies a secret garden, a testament to the power of collaboration and the beauty of reclaimed nature. The Giardini della Scienza, once an unassuming and neglected meadow, has been transformed into a vibrant 6,500 square meter oasis. This “forest within the city” is a gift to the over 2.5 million visitors who frequent Parco Nord Milano.
The Giardini della Scienza, opened in June 2014, represents a unique partnership. Parco Nord Milano, the Comune di Bresso, Regione Lombardia, the Zambon Group, and the Rotary Club Milano all contributed to its creation. This collaboration transformed a space once occupied by occasional fairs into a thriving ecosystem. The gardens now seamlessly integrate with the surrounding natural environment of Parco Nord, a vital green lung for the metropolitan area.
The Giardini della Scienza offers a variety of natural environments. The Bosco del Centenario provides shaded walkways for pedestrians and cyclists. Open meadows, bordered by shrubs, surround the curving Viale della Scienza. A 4,900 square meter lake, rich with hydrophilic vegetation, reflects the scenic trees planted along its edge. At the heart of the lake sits the Oxy.gen pavilion, designed by architect Michele De Lucchi, hosting educational and cultural events. Nearby, the Oxy.gen Bar offers a stunning terrace overlooking the lake.
These gardens hold a deeper history. Before their transformation, the area was cultivated for mulberry trees, essential for silk production. A few of these old mulberry trees remain, standing as silent witnesses to the area’s past. Now, the Giardini della Scienza is easily accessible by bike or foot from the cycle path along the Seveso River, including direct access from the Niguarda pedestrian bridge. Integrated parking areas are also available. The Giardini della Scienza, more than just a park, symbolizes the fruitful exchange between the scientific community and the public. This green haven in the heart of Parco Nord invites you to explore its diverse environments and reflect on the power of revitalization.