Shadows lengthen across Parco Nicolò Savarino. The air is still. The scent of ancient earth mingles with the fresh green of new leaves. This is more than just a park. This is a living testament to Milan’s history.
Parco Nicolò Savarino stands where the Agostino Bassi Hospital once stood. This hospital a place of healing and sorrow served Milan for almost a century. It opened after a devastating smallpox epidemic in 1833. It was known as the “hospital for infectives” or even the “Dergano hospital”. Its red brick walls still define the park’s perimeter. Many of the trees remain too. Silent witnesses to countless stories.
The hospital closed around 1970. The city repurposed the grounds. They built a football field and a small amphitheatre. A mini cable car connects two small hills. Perfect for children’s play. The grounds include dedicated dog parks and a network of paths. One path a seven hundred meter circuit perfect for a jog.
The park’s name changed in 2013. It is now dedicated to Nicolò Savarino. He was a local police officer tragically killed in the line of duty in 2012. His memory lives on in this tranquil space.
Among the park’s diverse flora are American maples sycamore maples and Norway maples. There are also tulip trees hornbeams and hackberry trees. Cedars both from the Atlas Mountains and the Himalayas stand tall. Common figs elms and the majestic liquidambars and magnolias add to its beauty. Two ancient hackberry trees stand sentinel near the playground. They are a remarkable sight.
The northern section of the park remains less frequented. It has become a haven for birds. Owls swallows redstarts and even the occasional great tit find refuge here. The nearby Villa Hanau an elegant 19th century building adds to the charm. It once housed the hospital offices. It is now home to the local council. Just outside the park’s walls stands the 15th century Cascina Boscaiola. This former Visconti hunting lodge remains a private residence.
Parco Nicolò Savarino. It’s more than green space. It’s a poignant reminder of Milan’s past. It is a testament to the life and death of those who shaped this city. It is a peaceful place for present and future generations. Take a moment to breathe. To appreciate the serenity. To feel the weight of history within this vibrant space. Enjoy your time here in Parco Nicolò Savarino.