Deep in the quiet commune of Zibido San Giacomo, Villa Salterio stands. Its story whispers from the walls. Originally a monastery from the 1300s, it transformed over centuries. It became a noble family’s estate. The Caimi family shaped it in the 1700s. The opening of the Naviglio added to its grandeur in the 1800s.
In 1868, Luigi Salterio acquired the estate. He had been managing it since 1837. The Salterio family made Moirago their home. They contributed to the community. They built the cemetery in 1885. Worker’s homes followed. The family established a nursery in 1925. These buildings still stand in Moirago. The 20th century brought further additions to the villa.
Note the seven terracotta busts on Villa Salterio. These represent great figures. They embody artists, painters, jurists, and writers. Tiziano Vecellio represents secular portrait painting. Antonio Canova embodies sculpture. Cesare Beccaria stands for jurisprudence. Benvenuto Cellini signifies goldsmithing. Niccolò Machiavelli embodies politics. Bernardino Luini represents sacred painting. Giuseppe Parini stands for poetry.
Observe the dovecote. It served two purposes. It was a place to raise doves. It also acted as a tower. It allowed for surveillance of the fields. It also oversaw boats on the Naviglio. Brick walls enclose two sides of the agricultural village. A small canal runs alongside them. A long monumental gate protects the side facing the towpath.
Villa Salterio suffered neglect for decades. Recent restoration efforts aim to preserve its cultural value. The stallion now welcomes the public. Inside are laboratories and conference rooms. A library and the Museum of Taste reside here. Further developments are planned. They include a residential area.
The Salterio family has entrusted the sale of the residence to experts. Its rich history offers many possibilities for its future. Investment opportunities exist. Depending on the renovation project, grants may be available.
The area has a charm. It is more than just walls. It is full of stories. Each brick of Villa Salterio holds a piece of history. It connects to the past and shapes its future. It represents the spirit of Moirago.