Around 1620 a decree changed Villastanza forever. Cardinal Federico Borromeo declared it an independent parish. This small village was no longer under the authority of Parabiago. Villastanza had its own church. It was dedicated to the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Saint Elizabeth.
The construction of this church began in 1615. The work progressed slowly finishing only in 1760. The church stood in the central square. This square is now called Piazza Indipendenza. The church’s facade was redone between 1897 and 1898. Cardinal Ferrari consecrated the church on November 3 1898. Almost three centuries after the building project began.
Villastanza’s independence was short lived. A petition was signed in 1906. The villagers wanted to become their own municipality. They pointed to their separation from Parabiago by the Villoresi Canal. They highlighted their distance of 2.2 kilometers. They also mentioned their industries. Their own parish and post office. The villagers also claimed their income was sufficient to run a municipality. The request was approved unanimously by the Parabiago town council. However Rome rejected it. Giovanni Giolitti’s centralist government refused the request.
Villastanza’s story is one of quiet strength. It’s a tale of community pride. This village fought for its identity. Although it remains a part of Parabiago its unique history endures. The church still stands. It’s a testament to the spirit of its people. A remarkable fact is that the church suffered arson in December 2023. The fire destroyed the Nativity scene and the 17th-century organ. A tragic event that affected the entire community. Villastanza though endures. Its identity is embedded in its history its people and its remarkable church.