Milano is home to a diverse array of architecture styles: neoclassical, liberty, modernist, functionalist, post-modern, che representing different eras and cultures. Following the illustrated book “Case milanesi, 1923-1973. Fifty years of residential architecture in Milan”, let’s discover the city’s one-of-a-kind villa and unexpected buildings.

Villa Invernizzi: nature amidst urban elegance

Our adventure begins at Villa Invernizzi, a well-kept secret nestled within Milano’s Porta Venezia Liberty Style and Art Deco District, in the Quadrilatero del Silenzio (the Silence Quadrangle), a residential area where you can find majestic neoclassical and modernist palaces in a refined atmosphere. This secluded private villa conceals a breath-takingsurprise: a flock of pink flamingoes gracefully meandering through its lush gardens, visible from the street. Urban elegance and vibrant wildlife conspire in giving birth to a harmonious retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city center, offering a unique perspective on Milano’s architecture.

Casa 770: a Dutch oasis in the heart of the city

Next on our itinerary is Casa 770, a 17th century Dutch-style house of the rabbi in the Porta Venezia Rainbow District. This quirky-looking palazzo is one of 12 replicas placed around the world, with the original one situated in Brooklyn. Its presence serves as a testament to Milano’s multiculturalism and its ability to embrace diverse influences in architecture. Nearby you can enjoy a stroll around the neighborhood, which is a shopping, food and cultural mecca for every tourist in the city.

Casa Museo Boschi Di Stefano: a time capsule of the 1900s

Step back in time as we visit Casa Museo Boschi Di Stefano, an incredible house museum with over 300 works of 20th century modern art in Art Deco home of this family of avid art collectors. This museum is a significant reminder of the spirit of the modernist era, offering visitors a glimpse into the artistic and cultural zeitgeist of Milano from the 1920s to the 1940s. 

The museum is free and open Friday to Sunday, from 9:30 to 17:30 (last entry at 17:00).

Casa degli Omenoni: a masterpiece of architectural ingenuity

Our itinerary continues downtown Milano with Casa degli Omenoni, a palazzo dating back to the 1500s. As you walk by, you’ll be greeted by the imposing façade shouldered by eight larger-than-life sculptures of mighty giants. The building, which you can admire from the outside, is a symbol of the city’s seamless ability to blend historic grandeur with contemporary living. Close by you can find all the city’s main attractions: La Scala Theater, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, and the Duomo Cathedral.

Workers’ village: a burst of color in Via Lincoln

Venturing into the vibrant Via Lincoln in an area rich in bistros, cafes, and charming restaurants, you’ll uncover a surprising side of the city: the colorful row houses of former industrial workers’ village. The colorful and lively houses line the streets among flowers and climbing plants. It’s the perfect spot to take pics to share on social media, especially in the spring when the private gardens of the Lincoln homesare in full bloom.

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Initiative created thanks to the resources of the Development and Cohesion Plan of the Italian Ministry of Tourism "Piano di Sviluppo e Coesione del Ministero del Turismo"