“Villalba,” an unassuming name isn’t it? Yet, it carries echoes of Milan’s past. Today, we’re exploring Vialone, a part of the Vialba district. Vialba itself was once an autonomous comune. Imagine that.
References to Villalba appear in documents from 1346. Back then, Milan was divided into “pieves.” Villalba belonged to the pieve of Bollate. Under Napoleon, Vialba was briefly annexed to Bollate. However, it regained its independence under the Kingdom of Lombardy-Venetia. This shows how important Vialba was.
But Vialba’s independent streak didn’t last. In 1841, it was annexed to Musocco. Later, in 1923, Musocco became part of Milan. Vialba transformed over time. It remained rural until after World War II. Subsequently, it became a residential area. It offered low-income housing. It seamlessly connected with Quarto Oggiaro. They’re now known together. Vialba and Quarto Oggiaro are the “quartiere of Vialba-Quarto Oggiaro”. This shows how Milan grew.
Even the local hospital has ties to Vialba. The Luigi Sacco hospital was once the “Sanatorio Vialba.” Today, it’s considered part of Roserio. This name change reflects the shifting boundaries of Milan’s districts.
Vialone’s story is one of constant change. It was once an independent village. Then it was absorbed by larger entities. Now, it’s an integral part of Milan. Vialba’s history reflects Milan’s sprawling growth. It is a reminder that even quiet corners hold stories. These stories shaped the city we see today.