In the 1930s, Milan’s authorities made a decision that forever changed the city’s face – they filled in most of the urban canals. Today, beneath the streets and sidewalks lies what for centuries was the economic heart of the city. Only fragments remain: Naviglio Grande, Naviglio Pavese, and Darsena. But these remaining canals are enough to understand what Milan once was – a city of water, not just the fashion capital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Standing on the bank at sunset, looking at the reflections of colorful townhouses in the water, it’s hard to believe the true history of this place. That marble for the Duomo was transported right here. That Leonardo da Vinci walked these paths and sketched his ideas for locks. That Milan had a river port that competed with seaside cities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
By day, the district is peaceful – you can stroll along the canal, peek into small galleries, search for hidden courtyards. In the evening, everything changes. Restaurant tables fill up with people, music drifts from bars, the air carries the scent of aperitivo<\/a>. That’s when Navigli shows its true face.<\/p>\n\n\n