Highlights
- Each reflection tells a different story, made up of lights and distant voices.
- It is an experience where past and present meet in a magical atmosphere.
- Let's discover an intimate side of Milan, away from the hectic pace of the city.
Description
Milan is famous for its Cathedral, fashion, and shopping, but a few steps from the historic old town there is another city, shaped by water and traversed for centuries by merchants, artisans, workers, artists, and poets.
This guided walk of about two hours will take you on a discovery of the Navigli and a Milan that many visitors do not know, starting from Piazza Sant'Eustorgio, one of the city's most historic places.
From here, we will embark on a journey through the relationship between Milan and water, discovering the system of its ancient canals and Leonardo da Vinci's contribution to perfecting the locks that facilitated navigation.
We will reach the Conca di Viarenna, a testament to the ancient Navigli system, and we will talk about the Milan that received goods and materials destined for the city's growth through its canals.
The walk will continue towards the Darsena, which for centuries was one of the main points of arrival and departure for goods and the heart of the water-based trade system.
We will then enter the atmosphere of the Naviglio Grande, amidst characteristic views, courtyards, and reminders of working-class Milan.
We will discover the famous Vicolo dei Lavandai, where the story of the city is told through the daily life and work of those who lived in these neighborhoods.
The Navigli are also culture and poetry. In fact, the route will take in places associated with Alda Merini, one of Milan's most beloved poetic voices, who was deeply connected to this neighborhood.
The tour will end in Via Magolfa, near the church of Santa Maria alla Fonte, also known for its connection with the tradition of chimney sweeps and with an ancient popular devotion.
It will be a journey through water, history, people and everyday life, to discover a Milan that is different from the one depicted on postcards.
The Navigli are also culture and poetry. In fact, the route will take you to places associated with Alda Merini, one of Milan's most beloved poetic voices, who had a deep connection to this neighborhood.
The tour will end in Via Magolfa, near the church of Santa Maria alla Fonte, also known for its connection to the tradition of chimney sweeps and to an ancient popular devotion.
It will be a journey through water, history, people and everyday life, to discover a Milan that is different from the one seen on postcards.
Includes
Proposal
Approximately 2-hour guided walking tour
Licensed tour guide
Historical and cultural tour through Sant'Eustorgio, Darsena and Navigli
Insights into the relationship between Leonardo da Vinci and the Milan canal system
Vicolo dei Lavandai and other distinctive spots in the neighborhood
Places linked to the life and poetry of Alda Merini
For tours in English: dedicated interpreting service, when provided
Note: The admission ticket for any visit to the Spazio Alda Merini is not included, and access depends on the museum's opening times.
The museum space dedicated to Alda Merini can be visited with a donation.
Opportunity to visit the studio of the great artist Gregorio Mancino, 'the painter of hearts'
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund