Villa Mirabello

Imagine stepping back in time to the 15th century, where the Visconti family would retreat to the countryside, merely a stone's throw from what is now the Marche metro stop in Milan. Back then, this charming estate was known as Cascina Mirabello. Historical records from 1468 document it as belonging to Pigello Portinari, a Florentine noble closely associated with Prince Sforza. Portinari was not just any noble; he managed the annuities of the Milanese duchy and represented the illustrious Florentine House of the Medici in Milan. He even spearheaded the construction of the Portinari Chapel in Sant'Eustorgio, showcasing his influence and dedication to art and architecture.

Fast forward to the late 15th century, and the villa found itself under the ownership of the Landriani family. Antonio Landriani was a man of many titles, from mayor of Milan to president of the Mint of Milan, all thanks to the Sforza family's appointments. He became a trusted advisor to Ludovico il Moro, who even stayed at Villa Mirabello on February 4, 1500. The villa later became a refuge for the Humiliati order, under Gerolamo Landriani's leadership. The Landriani's legacy is still etched into the villa: their coats of arms adorn the grand fireplace and ceilings, complemented by the motto "always el duty" painted alongside pomegranate figures and blue crosses.

As time went on, the villa was passed to the Marino family, a wealthy lineage from Genoa. Tommaso Marino commissioned the celebrated architect Galeazzo Alessi to construct Palazzo Marino in Piazza Della Scala, further cementing the family's legacy in Milanese history. Although the villa's later history is somewhat muddled, it eventually became part of the Serbelloni family's holdings. From the mid-1500s, the villa sadly began to fall into disrepair, its grandeur fading as it was relegated to agricultural use. Over the centuries, it deteriorated further until Luca Beltrami, in 1891, recognized its value as a prime example of Lombard architectural art. These days, Villa Mirabello stands as a testament to Milan's rich history. Visitors can still see the remnants of its storied past, making it a captivating destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. The villa's fascinating journey through centuries of change adds layers to Milan's already vibrant cultural tapestry. It's a hidden gem, waiting for curious travelers to uncover its secrets and imagine the lives of those who once walked its halls.