In the heart of Milan, small remnants of the city’s history are hidden among modern buildings and cutting-edge places. An example is Vicolo Calusca, a small street located near the Navigli and which for a long time was considered the most infamous street in the city. Today this is obviously no longer the case, but it is very interesting to delve into it history of the small Vicolo Calusca.
The origins of the name
Located near the effervescent Porta Ticinese and the ancient Darsena, the name of the alley already refers to something shady. It is believed, in fact, that the etymology of the toponym comes from Cà Losca, which was a very well-known meeting house in the city at the time. From here, therefore, the name of the alley was coined.
However, there is also another proposal for the etymology: the street would be named in honor of Giovanni Pietro di Calusco, a silk merchant from Bergamo who lived in the street for years. Vicolo Calusca is also called, however, “Stretta dei Nani”. To trace its origins we need to go back to 1512, when Duke Sforza decided to transfer the residence of the family here. court dwarveshired to entertain the court.
The many stories of Vicolo Calusca
In this small street, therefore, it was very common to find prostitutes, brothels and people of ill repute, who came to this sheltered place to exchange goods or arrange business. Much changed from the 80s of the last century onwards, when the alley was closed on one side for the construction of a building and the redevelopment of the neighborhood began.
Today the Darsena area is one of the most requested in Milan, as well as the entire Navigli area. Here you can find trendy bars, art galleries, studios of professionals and creatives.
What to see around Vicolo Calusca
If you find yourself visiting Vicolo Calusca, don’t miss the opportunity to explore them too surroundings. Here are some places of interest that are worth a visit:
- The Darsena of Milan: Once the beating heart of waterborne trade, today it is a lively area full of clubs and cultural events.
- Porta Ticinese: One of the ancient gateways to the city, surrounded by trendy shops and restaurants.
- Columns of San Lorenzo: One of the most evocative places in Milan, perfect for enjoying the evening atmosphere.
- Basilica of Sant’Eustorgio: Important place of worship that houses stories and works of art of great value.
How to get to Vicolo Calusca?
Are you fascinated by the history of Vicolo Calusca and want to visit this historic corner of Milan? There are several options for arriving by car, metro, bus or tram.
- By metro: The nearest metro station is Porta Genova (green line M2), from which Vicolo Calusca can be reached with a short walk of around 10 minutes through the lively streets of the neighbourhood. The nearby Vetra stop on metro 4 will also open during 2024.
- By bus: Several bus lines serve the area around Vicolo Calusca. The most convenient stops are those of Piazza Sant’Eustorgio and Piazza XXIV Maggio, well connected with the rest of the city.
- By tram: If you prefer the tram, lines 3 and 10 have stops in the immediate vicinity of Vicolo Calusca.
Living in the Navigli
Milan is a lively place all year round. Its thousand attractions and job opportunities make it the perfect place to decide to move or spend your holidays. With idealista you will be able to discover where to live in the Navigli and choose the house that best suits your interests:
