Brambilla`s family - Provincia Monza Brianza

Monza and Brianza
with
Brambilla’s family
Routes, gastronomy,
culture and sport
PROVINCIA
MONZA BRIANZA
www.provincia.mb.it
www.visitbrianza.it
Monza and Brianza
with
Brambilla’s family
Routes, gastronomy,
culture and sport
PROVINCIA
MONZA BRIANZA
www.provincia.mb.it
www.visitbrianza.it
Introduction
Province of Monza and Brianza
Via Napoleone Bonaparte 2
Mombello di Limbiate (MB)
Tel. 039.97.52.560/61
www.provincia.mb.it
www.visitbrianza.it
Design and copyright
Luca Mariani, Camilla Ronzullo
Graphic design and texts
Sole di Vetro
Via Donizetti 50, Monza (MB)
www.soledivetro.it
Images
Sole di Vetro, Shutterstock, Giovanni Novara (p. 47)
Print
Arti Grafiche Meroni
© Province of Monza and Brianza - Edition: January 2012
PUBLICATION NOT FOR SALE
CREATED FOR THE PROVINCE OF MONZA AND BRIANZA
2
The guidebook on Monza and the Brianza area proposes routes
and itineraries organized by the “Brambilla family” for discovering the gastronomical, historical and cultural aspects of a territory, homeland to small and medium enterprises, which welcomed and was the birthplace of many famous people, from
Leonardo da Vinci to Stendhal, from Alessandro Manzoni to Giuseppe Parini: the Brianza region.
Talking about tourism in Brianza may be considered a challenge,
a taboo to overcome. For this reason we are now proposing a
new and different approach for getting to know our territory,
with an easy-to-use and handy guidebook able to stimulate and
give a new lease of life to Brianza’s treasures. Not a didactic guidebook, like the many crowding the bookstores, but a
tool able to help tourists to discover by themselves what the
territory offers, with the aim of making the most of its gems,
products and traditions, combining visits, events and sightseeing itineraries.
Follow the members of the “Brambilla family”’ and, thanks to
their heterogeneity, you will get to know the several crown
jewels that embellish our territory: from cultural resources to
beautiful landscapes, from the major sites of artistic, historic
and architectural interest to industrial archaeology. You will
discover a number of the delightful villas which characterize
Brianza, along with trails and sites of faith, nature reserves and
sports oases.
The purpose of this Guidebook is to fully enhance the potential
our territory holds and to introduce authentic Brianza through
its products and its traditions. Focus is on quality, on the most
genuine value and essence of the area itself - the key is informal
and fun. Sites are approached and visited by experiencing and
enjoying them, absorbing their very pace and nature: just like
tourist-explores do.
Tourism in Brianza, so much to discover!
Dario Allevi
President
Andrea Monti
Councillor for Tourism
3
Map of the territory
4
Before le
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5
Enjoy your trip
with the
Brambilla family
Giüsep
Simo
Marco
Caterina
What can three Brambillas and a Beretta do on a summer holiday?
That is easy; they plan a trip around the beautiful Province of
Monza and Brianza!
The Brambillas – Caterina, Giuseppe and their daughter Simona –
are a really nice, not ordinary and loving family. Marco Beretta,
their daughter’s boyfriend, follows them in all their legendary adventures, always enduring the girl’s troubles as well as her endless
reproaches. The next few pages are about a day spent with this
likeable bunch in the most representative places of the Province.
The four of them leave Monza early in the morning and are back
in the evening for Caterina’s delicious sausage risotto (risotto alla
luganega). As this area is so rich in great walks, leisure options
and opportunities for learning more about the territory, at the end
of every single stage, the readers have the opportunity to decide
the next destination, following the Brambilla’s adventures or guiding them. The mechanism of this guidebook game will enable the
readers to get to know the Provinces’s most scenic sights, its products and unique features. Starting from square one, in Monza, and
following the suggestions listed at the end of each visit, the trip
combinations multiply , according to the number of options the
territory and its wonders hold for residents and tourists.
If you are in Monza, in the Arengario area, you may come across
Giuseppe. Even today he has decided to start his trip around Monza
and Brianza surroundings from here. This building always triggers
mixed feelings: it was the place where he used to meet Caterina,
his wife, when they were still courting. But, as time went by, and
misunderstandings built up, Giuseppe often took against it, cursing
it for all the times it had been the setting for their appointments!
He happened to be in front of it also that time that Caterina would
just not stop talking. He then took her by the arm and led her to
the southern facade of the building: he pointed at a tiny stone
loggia, the Parlèra, the place where all the City’s decrees were
once read out, and said to her, in a mocking tone, that that was
the place for her, for good. Caterina did not take it well, but the
fog was thick that evening, all those years ago, and a delicious,
and still warm, milk cake was waiting for them at home, so she
pretended indifference and clung onto her husband’s arm, disappearing with him in the cold winter. Giuseppe smiles cherishing this
memory: down deep he is a romantic soul.
1. Do you want Giuseppe to join his wife at the Duomo of Monza?
Go to page 12.
2. Giuseppe is pretty angry today! Just before joining Caterina
at the Duomo of Monza, he argued with her over the phone.
If you want to avoid further trouble, send him straight
to Cornate d’Adda, on page 50.
3. Are you curious to know where Simona, Caterina and Giuseppe’s daughter, is? Join her at Monza, on page 16.
A typical snack
in Brianza?
Keep on reading
and you will find out…
8
Arengario
The Arengario is the city’s true vibrant heart. Set at
the centre of Piazza Roma square, it seems its embattled bell tower is watching over the close-knit network
of streets roads and alleyways that converge there. A
role that can be explained by its history. This stunning example of civil architecture, which dates from
the thirteenth and fourteenth century (when it housed
the town hall), was the setting for the loud,
colorful and scented
city market that
was held under its
arcades... It is still
a meeting point today
and on its first floor
there is a huge space
where temporary displays take place.
A renga
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club)
9
Milk cake
(or torta paesana) recip e
Ingredients (serves 4 people)
4 small stale bread rolls; 1 liter full fat milk;
160 g sugar; 1 egg yolk; salt to taste, 60 g butter;
10 macaroons (amaretti); 5 tables poon of bitter
cocoa powder; 100 g raisins; pine nuts to taste
Preparation
Cut the stale bread into tiny pieces. Place in a
bowl and add the milk (hot); cover the bowl with
a plate and allow to soak 3-4 hours. Once ready,,
crush the macaroons with the cocoa powder; soak
the raisins in hot water and a little Amaretto di
Saronno or rum; crush the soft bread with a spoon
or a fork and add the macaroon and cocoa mixture along with the eggs; then add the sugar and
pine nuts. Mix the whole, then add the raisins
(drained). Mix again, grease (or line with baking
paper) a round baking tin and pour the mixture into
it. Bake in a 190 degrees oven for one hour. Remove
from oven and allow to cool thoroughly.
10
11
Caterina is in love with the Duomo of Monza: she loves going there
often, alone or in company. She knows the Basilica of San Giovanni Battista (Saint John the Baptist) better than the back of her own
hand! Sometimes, emerging from the narrow maze of streets clustered
around Piazza del Duomo square, she gets a pang in her heart. Such
emotion is triggered by the fascination Queen Teodolinda has always
exerted over her. In the chapel named after this sovereign, Caterina
eagerly examines the frescos that tell her story and admires the famous
Iron Crown. Usually, she gets carried away and finds herself wondering
through the rooms of the Museum nearby. Centuries and centuries of
art follow her silently, and she approaches them with an amazed childlike attitude. This morning, not unlike many others, while immersed in
the contemplation of some precious late-Romanesque works, Caterina
feels a hand on her shoulder. She jerks as if some alarm clock has just
gone off and turns round: Giuseppe’s big smiley face appears just two
inches from her own nose!
- What have you done? You’re laughing like a child!
- My dear wife, what could I have done?
- Well, you tell me...
- Nothing! It’s just I’m happy to see you!
Discussing the very essence of a smile, they reach the car and head
for Vimercate.
1. Do you want to go to Vimercate with them? Go to page 18.
2. Would you rather join Marco, Simona’s boyfriend?
Keep on reading.
3. If you want to try your luck and gather the Brambillas for an aperitif
in Canonica Lambro, guide all of them to page 30.
Must-see in the Duomo:
the Iron Crown. According
to tradition, it contains
a metallic band that
was beaten out of one
of the nails Christ
was crucified with.
12
The Basilica
of Saint John the Baptist,
Duomo of Monza!
TIMES
OPENING
Tue-Sun
2pm - 6pm
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Museum and Treasury of the Duomo
of Monza
Visiting this museum is like travelling through time.
1400 years of history told by the Basilica’s masterpieces. Do not miss Queen Teodolinda’s crown, the
hen with the seven chicks, fabrics from the early
Middle Ages and frescos from the period the Visconti family ruled... and there is much more.
13
Monza Race
www.monzanet.it
Track and
Golf Club
Long live Monza Race Track! Marco, Simona’s boyfriend, considers it
one of the main features in his life. He is a great sportsman and never
misses the opportunity to experience racing. He has attended all Formula 1 Grand Prix and Superbike Championships over the last years
and could quote all the victories, accidents and critical steps of each
event by heart. His father took him there for the very first time: he
remembers that day as if it were today: from the roaring race cars
darting below the stands, to the virtually overwhelming feeling of being so grown up. He has spoken to Simona today and promised to join
her on their trip around the province. They are a reliable and sociable
couple and, except for Miss Brambilla’s jealousy fits, they would make
the “perfect match” : he is always ready to please her and she is always
looking for something to complain about. However, Marco has decided
to call at the Golf Club before meeting her. He wants to say hello to a
friend there and watch some of his new bravados. He is pleased to start
his day off with a stroll in green surroundings, yet he is also looking
forward to meeting his girlfriend.
1. Can you not wait to see Simona hugging Marco once again?
Make them meet in Vedano al Lambro, on page 20.
2. If you want to follow Caterina and Giuseppe in Vimercate,
go to page 18.
3. Marco is about to join Simona, when she calls to tell him she has
to study. Decide who you want to follow:
- Simona heading towards Carate Brianza library. Go to page 36 with her.
- Marco, who is going to Seregno with his friend Fiore; page 40.
14
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15
It is not possible to say how many times
Simona has entered the Monza Park
confident she would have run her way
out of it. What is sure it that, also this
time, her spleen started to hurt after
only 300 m effort and she had to give
up and stop at a lovely kiosk for a drink.
She was not really supposed to be at
the Park this morning; it is just that
she somehow managed to get away
from her troubles, the mobile and the
computer and find herself right here.
Coming here has always meant visiting Monza Royal Villa (Reggia di Monza)
to her. When she was a child, Caterina
used to fill her with all her royal ambition by showing her the mansion as if
it were to become her home one day.
A long time ago, on a school trip, while
boldly walking through the Piermarini
halls, Simona went to such an extent
that she convinced a friend of hers that
she owned the lot.
- You see, - she said – it is all mine, this
and that, too! But, as bills are so expensive, we have donated it to the City...
1. If you want Simona to meet Marco
and go on a trip to Vedano al Lambro,
go to page 20.
2. If you believe Simona should study
more for her graduation thesis, send her
straight to Carate Brianza, on page 36.
3. If you are curious to know where
Caterina and Giuseppe are going, keep
on reading.
16
Monza Royal Villa
Oak leaf picked
in the park, near
Villa Mirabello
Country residence of Archduke Ferdinand, son of Empress Maria Theresa of Austria, the Royal Villa of
Monza was built between 1777 and 1780 and designed by Giuseppe Piermarini, one of Lombardy’s
most outstanding neo-classical architects. It is an
undisputed symbol of the city and of whole Brianza,
and is deeply bound to the huge park in which it
stands. The avenues, groves, villas and old mills
along River Lambro, make a great free time favorite
for locals and visitors.
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17
Giuseppe has pompously promised her
wife he will spend the rest of the day with
her, wherever she decides to go. Seizing
the occasion, Caterina has swiftly uttered three words: Villa Gallarati Scotti.
So, here they are, heading towards
the village of Oreno, to visit one of
the grandest XVIII century villas in the
area. Yet, as soon as he has left Caterina in front of the great gates, and has
parked their car Giuseppe swiftly slips
behind the villa and hides in its stunning English landscape park. Standing
in front of a gushing Neptune Nymphaeum, and cursing his own generosity, the man thinks it would be great to
have a portable radio handy and enjoy
a second, third, or even fourth, division match in peace and quiet. After
all somebody must be playing somewhere in the world! Football, basketball or water polo, whatever!
1. If you want to continue the trip
to Vimercate, go to page 22.
2. If you are curious to know where
Simona and Marco are, keep on reading.
3. Giuseppe and Caterina are arguing
again: she was wondering around
the villa looking for him, feeling
abandoned…when she eventually
got hold of him she did not know
if she wanted to cry or to be angry!
Avoid the worst and send the man
straight to Cornate d’Adda,
on page 50.
18
Info: ufficio.cultura.vimercate@
sbv.mi.it (open during
the “Ville Aperte in Brianza” fes
tival – Open Villas Festival)
Photos
of the
Villa
Every 2 years,
in September:
Potato Festival
Villa Gallarati Scotti in ORENO
Like all precious jewels, which can rarely be put
on display, Villa Gallarati Scotti, in the village of
Oreno, is only open on special occasions. It is one of
the most sumptuous villas that dot south Brianza
and is surrounded by an amazing English landscape
park. The original Baroque features of the elegant
Neptune Nymphaeum are still visible. The Roman god
of water seems to be proudly posing under the gaze
of curious visitors... The first build dates back to
the end of the XVII century and was later remodeled
according to Neoclassical style. Do not miss the
frescoed interiors.
19
Marco has just joined Simona near Monza Royal Villa. She runs
to him, as if they had not seen each other for ages, but her hug
ends up with her disastrously treading on his foot!, He makes an
effort to hold a terrible scream when her heel digs into his little toe. Brambilla women are tough, unruly and restless! After a
short while Marco recovers his senses and proposes his girlfriend to
reach Villa Litta in Vedano al Lambro. His poor foot has not made
him forget about the girl’s adoration for such residence, and the
pleasure she takes in contemplating it. It is a really unusual villa,
featuring an architectural style which is completely different from
any other building in the neighborhood. It has been the scenario
for thousands of stories: involving kings, love and betrayal. Also
film director Vittorio De Sica set his movie “Il Giardino dei Finzi
Contini” (The Finzi Contini’s Garden) right there.
1. If you want to go along with the two young sweethearts,
go to page 26.
2. If you want Simona and Marco to stop in Lambro Valley Park,
lead them to page 56.
3. Simona decides to continue alone: she wants to go and see
her friend Clara and call at the Contemporary Art Park in Briosco
(Parco d’Arte Contemporanea), on page 52. Chose who you want
to follow.
- Simona is going to page 36.
- Marco is meeting his friend Fiore near page 40.
Something about:
Marrowbone
It appears that the
original recipe did not
include tomatoes, which
were introduced in the
XVIII century.
20
The entrance
of Villa Litta
Villa Litta in Vedano al Lambro
Built during the first half of the XIX century on an
aristocratic residence of the Gallarati Scotti family,
the villa (now private property) once belonged to the
Archduke Giulio Litta Visconti Arese. The architect
Luigi Chierichetti, in charge of the project, designed
an unusual building inspired to, English Neo-Gothic
style. The huge park that surrounds it is a sort of
extension of the one in Monza: it still includes
vast farm lands and the Archduke Canal (Roggia dell’Arciduca), that supplied the Royal Villa of
Monza with water.
21
Villa Sottocasa and the MUST
Vimercate itinerary
- I thought it would be nice if you decide where to go now!
They are still in Vimercate, crossing San Rocco bridge (Saint Roch),
when Caterina mutters these very words. Giuseppe, taken by surprise,
does not know what to say.
- Well, if you want to go to Villa Sottocasa and see the MUST, that
would be ok for me!
- Well, to tell you the truth, I...
He would like to slap himself for not having answered more promptly...
instead he keeps on walking, hands in pockets, dragging along.
Clean lines and elegance: Villa Sottocasa has been
“sporting its neoclassical attire” since the XIX century, following major renovation works that resulted in
the addition of the gabled facade and of the staircase
decorated by statues. A wing of the residence is the
now the home of the MUST, the Territorial Museum,
an outstanding source of information on the history and
culture of the Vimercate area. Paintings, postcards, maps
and videos make each visit interesting and interactive
even for the little ones.
Info: www.m us eom ust.i
t
Wed – Thu – Fri 3pm
to 7pm Sat - Sun 10am
– 1pm / 3pm to 7pm
(guided tours: book on
800 333 722)
1. Do you want the two of them to go to Arcore? Go to page 28.
2. Do you prefer they argue? In that case, read below:
Once their visit to the MUST is over, Giuseppe plucks up his courage
and tells his wife he would like to take her to the Centrale Esterele in
Cornate d’Adda.
- That’s a good idea husband! I appreciate it! But do want to go there
this year?
- Even today, if possible!
Atmosphere heats up and the two end up arguing!
3. If you want them to make peace, go with them to Arcore, on page 28.
4. If you believe it is better they split, choose the one to follow:
- Caterina is going to Lissone, on page 38.
- Giuseppe is joining Agostino at Centrale Esterle on page 50.
5. To follow Marco and Simona, go to page 26.
22
23
Caterina says other two words: Trotti Palace. Giuseppe looks down and
follows her without replying. As they approach Vimercate Town Hall,
she takes on the attitude of a true offspring of the lord of the manor.
Her royal gait, emphatic enough to make her look like a desperate
heroin from some Russian novel, catches the eye of the people passing by, making her husband feel uneasy and wanting to take a step
aside. But Caterina does not bother, and when she enters this amazing
villa, she starts dreaming. An energy consuming activity that normally
wears her out, and which involves walking and twisting through the
rooms to check out even the tiniest details of the frescoed ceilings (…
and which normally develops into sciatica the day after).
Palazzo Trotti
No wonder it has been the home of
Vimercate Town Hall for one and a half
century! The councilors certainly enjoy
this rococo mansion, the elegant rooms
on the ground and first floor and the
XVIII century frescoes depicting mythological and literary subjects.
[email protected]
San Rocco Bridge
San Rocco (Saint Roch) Bridge dates back to Roman days and features a XII century gate, along with
a fourteenth century tower. It crosses the Molgora
Stream and is one of the symbols of Vimercate.
Suddenly, in Cleopatra’s hall, Caterina can no longer control herself
and, taking advance of the fact they are alone asks her husband in
a dream-like tone:
- Giuseppe, tell me, don’t you think it is beautiful?
- Um …
- Um what? Tell me what you think! Don’t be scared! What do you feel?
- Pain...
- Pain? Yes, of course it is a feeling…but why pain?
- You’re standing on my foot wife.
Brambilla women are a real threat to
their men feet!
1. If you want them to continue with their trip, go to page 28.
2. Leave them and join Simona and Marco in Biassono, on page 26.
3. Prevent another argument and make Caterina meet her friend
and neighbor in Lissone. Go to page 38.
24
25
- Well, since we are in Vedano al Lambro we could stop in Biassono!
- That’s a wonderful idea, Marco! How come you thought of that?!
- Simona... it’s no secret: it is only a stone’s throw from here!
- Uh, yeah, quite true...
Marco and Simona head for Biassono. He does not have the slightest
idea of what his careless girlfriend has in mind... but all that enthusiasm makes him wonder: he knows that the girl’s impetus regularly
ends up in calamity, with him playing the victim role. All he can do is
watch out, fearing for his safety. Will she suddenly hug him while he
is driving, making them skid off the road?! You cannot trust Simona:
she is the clumsiest girl on earth!
He clasps onto the steering wheel, while the radio is playing the
last hit of a new talent show singer. Lost in the background made
of green and buildings, Simona hums without shame, changing the
words of the verses and dramatically going out of tune, as relaxed
and happy as ever. The song becomes exclusively hers and of no one
else, the same for the road leading to Biassono, and for the short
relaxing break with her boyfriend. At the beginning of the second refrain, just as the singer is holding her breath for an unbearable high
note, Villa Verri and the Civic Museum appear. Marco sighs in relief.
The air is crisp, ideal for a cheerful trip. They park the car and, hand
in hand, let the streets lead them through people and colors.
1. Would you like them to head for Canonica Lambro? Go to page 30.
2. Do you think you should join Giuseppe and Caterina?
Please turn the page.
3. Do you have the feeling Marco is not enjoying his day out
with Simona? Send him to Seregno, on page 40, to continue
his tour on his own.
26
www.museobiassono.it
Fri. 9:30am to 12:00am /
3:00pm to 6:30pm
Sat. 3:00pm to 7:30pm
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27
So Caterina got her own way, in the end. Now after a few really
tense minutes, and with a calmer attitude, they are both heading
towards the center of Arcore, to visit Villa Borromeo d’Adda. Shortly
before arriving at their destination, they buy some pan tranvai, one
of Giuseppe’s favorite desserts. And, while he takes his time to thoroughly enjoy it, she rushes up to the, Vela Chapel (Cappella Vela).
Just think of that poor woman who married the Marquis d’Adda!
Poor Maria Isimbardi, who died young and was buried in this chapel!
Husbands are often very hard to digest! With these thoughts in her
head, Caterina twirls among the sculptures and stuccos that decorate the amazing building, losing sight of her loving husband, who,
with the last morsel of Pan Tranvai hanging from his lips, and despite
himself, is admiring the great stables of the villa.
1. Giuseppe gets rid of his wife and finally reaches Cornate d’Adda.
Join him on page 50.
2. If you want them both to go to Canonica Lambro, keep on reading.
3. If you are longing for a cat nap under a tree in Groane Park,
go with Marco to page 54.
Ingredients:
water, flour, sugar, eggs,
butter, raisins, baking
powder, salt to taste
28
Arcore: Villa Borromeo d’Adda
and the Vela Chapel
Two villas, a garden open
to the public and the stables. Arcore boasts a
truly spectacular complex. Completed in the late
1800s, a wing of Villa Borromeo d’Adda now houses
the council offices, while
the stables have been recently restored to their former glory. The magnificent
Vela Chapel (Cappella Vela - only occasionally open to
the public), was built for Giovanni d’Adda in 1850 to
treasure the mortal remains of his wife, Maria Isimbardi. It features a fine statue representing Piety (Pietà) sculpted by Vincenzo Vela. (www.villadarcore.com)
Pan tranvai
So delicious! Really loved by locals and visitors. The name Pan Tranvai is connected to
the history of the steam tramway: the sweet
could be bought from the trumpeter on board
during the “long” trip to Milan!
29
Three Brambillas and one Beretta end up by chance in Canonica
Lambro, a lush hamlet part of Triuggio. Caterina and Giuseppe arrive there freed from the bully attitude of the former towards her
poor husband. They are now enjoying a stop in the village, on their
way to the Church of Rancate, which Caterina, a Madonna devotee,
cannot wait to visit. Different story for the sweethearts: just back
from a quick visit of Villa Taverna, they are looking forward to enjoying a romantic drink on the banks of river Lambro, strolling on hand in
hand, with Simona tugging at her boyfriend’s arm every single time
a petty detail catches her attention. They all meet as soon as they
get off their cars, and Caterina immediately greets her daughter,
asking her thousands of questions and overwhelming her with loads
of loving care, which Simona just cannot bear. As soon as they have
all had their Bianchino (small glass of white wine) accompanied by a
couple olives, mother and daughter are already longing to get away
from each other. It is time to part; yet the argument will certainly be
resumed tonight, at the Brambilla’s house, with everybody enjoying
Caterina’s pièce de resistance: luganega risotto.
1. Simona goes to study; it is high time she did! To keep her
company and revise the lesson with her, go to page 36.
2. Follow Giuseppe and Caterina to Desio, go to page 34.
3. If your feet hurt and you just feel like a risotto, go straight back
to Monza on page 62.
4. If you want to discover how to make risotto, turn the page.
30
The Sanctuary of Santa Maria
Assunta (The Assumption
of Mary) in Rancate, contains
pieces by Appiani and
Albertolli, who later became
famous working for Monza
Royal Villa.
CANONICA LAMBRO
In summertime the village
of Canonica Lambro comes
alive like one of those
bustling seaside resorts
along the Romagna Riviera. It might be the
village atmosphere, or the fine traditional Brianza
venues, to attract all such crowd. The tiny hamlet
of Triuggio becomes a big favorite with local youth.
Sightseeing speaking, the gem is Villa Taverna,
set in a vast Italian garden. It once was the home
of an outstanding VIP: Egidio, who loved the Nun
of Monza, the character from the novel “The Betrothed” (I Promessi Sposi).
31
Monzese Risotto
Ingredients (serves 4 people)
350g Superfine Arborio rice, 150g luganega sausage,
1 sachet saffron, 1 small onion, beef broth, butter, half
glass white wine, Grana Padano cheese, salt
What is “luganega”?
It is fresh sausage
made with pork meat.
Also known
as luganiga
or luganica,
it is eaten cooked
or used for
seasoning dishes.
Here is
th
a lady e recip e
in dial (sciura
ect
Franca ) called
gave m
e.
32
Preparation
Brown the finely chopp ed onion and sausage,
without the casing, in butter in a deep pan ; add
the rice and allow to roast for a few minutes.
Sprinkle the rice with white wine and let it evaporate. At this point, pour the broth to cover the
rice and cook it over medium/high heat. Halfway
through cookin g, add the saffron, dissolved in a
spoonful of broth and mix well. Continue cookin g,
makin g sure that the broth is alway s hot enough
to not break the boil. At the end add a knob of
butter and grated Grana Padano chees e and mix
thoroughly. Let it stand one minute and serve hot.
33
Mr. and Mrs. Brambilla decide to go to Desio and visit Villa Cusani
Traversi Tittoni, one of the most important buildings in the surroundings. Once arrived, Giuseppe proposes to go to the Sala delle Colonne
(Column Room) and admire once again his favorite features: the unusual puttos playing cards and billiard in the round ceiling paintings.
The man’s stomach starts to gurgle fiercely while Caterina is
dreaming of slippers, since her legs have swollen up and gone puffy.
Sunset calms down bad temper, making even a long standing couple like
them fall in love once again. Everything is suddenly perfect and tender.
- Now I think about it, we could have gone to the Madonna Pellegrina (Pilgrim Madonna) Sanctuary while we were in Desio!
- Of course we could have...
- Don’t worry husband, that’s enough for today! At any rate, I have
a feeling St. Augustine’s Path crosses it... you know we are going
to cover the whole of it this year, don’t you?
- I had no doubts...
- You are the best husband in the world!
The two Brambillas are now blending with the horizon but, even if
they are so far away and we cannot really see them, they are surely
both satisfied and smiley. Despite the hard fighting that went on all
day, it was still a whole day together, a priceless treasure.
1. The couple returns to Monza. Guide them up to page 62,
if you want to.
2. Join Marco at the LIPU Oasis, go to page 48.
3. If you want to know why Clara, Simona’s friend, is disappointed
about last night’s date, keep on reading.
An ivy leaf
from the park
34
DESIO: Villa Cusani Tittoni Traversi
Great artists contributed to the construction of Villa
Cusani Tittoni Traversi in Desio. The outcome is actually truly amazing!
Giuseppe Piermarini
was called to transform the original baroque structure into
a neoclassical residence; Pelagio Pelagi
rearranged the home
and gardens according to Neo-Gothic style in the early 1800s; last but
not least, Luca Beltrami created the staircase and the
mausoleum. The park is no longer embellished by the
pavilions, the caves and the lake, but some among the
trees it treasures have been there for centuries... (open
for exhibitions and temporary events)
cultura@com une.des
io.m
b.it
adir
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(
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The Palio deg
) is held
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35
Sightseeing in Carate Brianza
Basilica and Ba
ptistery of Agliat
Built cen
e
Simona is driving to meet her university mate, Clara: they have an appointment in Carate Brianza, in front of Villa Cusani Confalonieri, now
home of the Germano Nobili Library. They often go there because it
is a great place for studying. Last night Clara went out with Giovanni,
the cousin of the new girlfriend of Vale’s ex-boyfriend, and Simona is
dying to know how it went. But Clara is late, as always, and Simona
decides to go in. Clara arrives running a few minutes later! She is in
such a rush that she makes a stack of paper, which a boy sitting next
to Simona had just arranged, fly all over the place.
Somebody whispers: Be quiet! If you want to speak, go out!
- Yes, let’s get out of here Simona!
As soon as they are out of the front door, Clara tells her that the cousin
of the new girlfriend of Vale’s ex boyfriend made her pay the dinner
bill and eventually fell asleep on his chair. And, after having agreed
upon the fact real men no longer exist, the two go back inside and
start studying.
1. The two friends get bored and leave the library. Go to page 44
to discover where they are going.
2. Simona recalls her great days in the Lambro Park;
follow her memories on page 56 to find out more.
3. Caterina has argued with Giuseppe, turn the page
if you do not want to leave her alone.
36
turies ago, long b
efore year one
thousand, the sm
all Romanesque
church,
coupled with an
equally fine exa
mple of the
same period, the
Baptistery, was b
uilt using
river pebbles. T
he lunette above
the doorway
depicts Christ, w
hile the interior is
decorated by
well preserved f
rescos from the M
iddle Ages.
ieri
n
lo
a
f
n
o
C
i
n
a
s
u
Villa C m the historic center,
A few steps fro
I century,
I
V
X
e
th
in
lt
ui
the villa, b
overlooking
g
in
tt
e
s
ul
if
ut
a
e
boasts a b
ly the same
b
a
b
ro
p
s
i
t
I
.
ro
River Lamb
the Middle
in
ss
re
rt
o
f
a
y
b
site occupied
III and XIX
V
X
e
th
in
ly
n
o
Ages. It was
was given
g
in
ld
ui
b
e
th
t
a
centuries th
public
e
th
es
us
o
h
t
I
.
e
nc
its actual appeara its impressive park
civic library and
lic.
is open to the pub
37
And so they decided to split… Caterina and Giuseppe finished
their tour of Vimercate going two different ways, and their day
off just became a usual Brambilla style series of skirmishes. He
turned around and walked away, hoping to be lovingly called
back. She got angry and, screaming like mad, sent him to hell.
Yet, Caterina never despairs, so she called her favorite neighbor
and gossip mate, who is the best cook in Brianza (after herself,
of course!) – legend has it that, a long time ago, all the best
men available just fell at her feet for her legendary “cassoeula” (a local specialty). That is what people say, yet there is no
evidence to prove such story, as “the Neighbor” (she must also
have a proper name but everyone has always only called her
“the Neighbor”) has never married. The two women meet at
Lissone railway station: Caterina gets there by train; her friend
by car. Now they do not need to walk far: the Museum of Contemporary Art (Museo d’Arte Contemporanea) is right opposite
them.
Museum of Contemporary Art of Lissone
Opened in 2000, it houses a large collection of works
outcome of the extraordinary Premio Lissone (Lissone
Prize -1946-1967) experience: Vedova, Dorazio, Appel,
Werner and Schneider are some of the featured artists. The facility also includes a section dedicated to
works by local master Gino Meloni and a modern
and contemporary art area, set up with donations,
purchases and temporarily borrowed works.
1. Giuseppe has called Caterina to make peace.
If you want them to meet again, send Caterina to Desio,
on page 34.
If you want them to quarrel again, you can choose who you
want to follow:
- Caterina is going to Cesano Maderno, on page 42.
- Giuseppe is going to Cornate d’Adda, on page 50.
2. Join Simona and Clara in Verano Brianza, on page 44.
3. If you want to learn more about the Brambilla’s neighbor’s
lovers, go to page 42.
Activities
The Neighbor’s legendary
cassoeula: a typical
Brianza dish
38
• exhibitions
• events
• concerts
• projects
reserved
to schools
and families
- Clos ed
Monday
- Tuesday
, Wednes
day, Frida
y 3pm - 7
- Thursda
pm
y 3pm - 1
1pm
- Saturda
y and hol
idays 10p
m-12pm/3
Free adm
ittance pm-7pm
Via Pada
nia 6
www.m u
s eolisson
e.it
39
So, Marco ends up alone. His girlfriend wondering around on her own
and his parents in-law arguing somewhere in Brianza. Everything as
usual. He tries to get hold of his mobile phone lost in the pocket of his
jacket and calls a friend of his, his best one, the one he used to share
a snack with, sitting on the stairs of their block, the four knees grazed.
After few minutes, the most beaten-up car in Brianza is there to rescue
him: it is Fiorenzo, also known as Fiore. Marco would like to do a lot
of things, but this time he decides to let somebody else chose: Fiore
tells him he is on his way to Seregno to see a girl he met a couple of
days before.
- Wait! I don’t want to be the third wheel!
- Don’t worry! There are going to be at least fifteen people there! I’m
sure about it, they always meet in the centre, near the Tower…I’m
just going there to test the field! And anyway I need you to give me
your impressions.
- I had forgotten how hard a single’s life is!
- Come on, Marco! You’ve never been single: you’ve been engaged
since before you were born, it was written in the stars that Simona
and you will marry one day!
- Oh! Take it easy, we’re not married yet...
- I’ll give you another two years time...
Marco feels slightly sick, but he is not sure if it depends on his friend
driving style or if it is the idea of getting married soon. At any rate, he
decides not to think about it, lowers the window held up with brown
tape and turns his face toward the fresh air blowing into the car.
He suddenly realizes that going to Seregno with Fiorenzo is not that
bad... and, if he did get bored, he could always go and hide behind
Barbarossa’s Tower (Torre del Barbarossa)!
1. Has Fiore found the girl he was looking for? Go to page 48
to find out.
2. If you wish to visit Palazzo Arese Borromeo, follow Caterina
and keep on reading.
3. Do you want Marco to join his girlfriend? Make them meet
in Briosco, on page 52.
40
SEREGNO:
Barbarossa’s tower
The imposing tower is
the symbol of the
city and was built
in the XII century
for Emperor Frederick I,
nicknamed Barbarossa
(Red beard), as a watch
point along the Milan-Como
line during the war against
the Lombard Communes. Its
belfry contains nine bronze
bells forged by the Prizewinning Papal Foundry
Cav. Carlo Ottolina.
The tower is not open
to the public.
41
- Don’t be upset, Caterina, that’s just like husbands are... that’s
why I have never wanted one! I’m not that stupid!
Neighbor starts talking about all the young boys who would have
married her without second thoughts when she was young; proposals
that, of course she promptly refused. She describes each of them in
detail, but Caterina cannot remember any of them…quite strange,
considering that they grew up together and very likely used to have
some common friends!
- What about stopping in Cesano Maderno? I would like to visit
Palazzo Arese Borromeo one more time...
Despite Caterina’s request mercilessly interrupts her friend’s list,
Neighbor is really excited about the idea: the woman vigorously
steers in the direction of Cesano Maderno, heading towards the
beautiful XVII century residence.
- And have I ever told you that it was right in Palazzo Arese gardens
that I turned down that Arturo from Vimercate?
- No, you haven’t!
- We were near the Dromedary Fountain, and just guest what he did…
- What?
- He tried to kiss me, that fool!
- That’s crazy...
And the story is still in progress when they finally enter the building.
CESANO MADERNO:
Palazzo Arese Borromeo and garden
This sumptuous XVII century palace, which inspired several buildings throughout the State
of Milan, was home to the Arese, Earls of
Castellambro. Bartolomeo Arese III was one of
its most illustrious members. The most unusual
feature of the building is the double loggia
that overlooks both the inner courtyard and
the beautiful garden that stretches almost a
kilometer behind the building.
1. Do you want to continue Caterina and her Neighbor’s trip?
Go to page 46.
2. Are you wondering where Giuseppe is? Go to page 50.
3. Do you want to know if Simona is really studying or if she has
started gossiping with her friend Clara? Keep on reading.
G uided to
urs on re
cu ltura.turis quest
m o@
com une.ces
ano-m ader
n
Op en Sund o.mb.it
ay,
M arch to
October
42
More to see
in the village:
Torrazzo
Palazzo Arese Jacini
43
The two friends raise their heads from the books in the same moment
and, with a brief nod of agreement, decide to leave the library.
- Simona, can you give me a lift?
- With pleasure, dear! Do you mind if we stop a couple of times
before getting there?
- That’s great! My head is exploding!
It is still a beautiful day when they reach the car and resume analyzing Clara’s awful first date with who she has nicknamed “the most
boring man on earth”. The night before they met up nearby Besana
and, at a certain point, he was so cheeky to fall asleep in the middle
of a very interesting discussion on the motion of moons and tides.
Clara can just not believe it happened! Simona comforts her as best
as she can yet, in her opinion (but she keeps it for herself), tides and
moons are certainly the wrong topic for a first date. No wonder he
started yawning…
Suddenly, while they are passing near the Basilica of Saint Peter and
Paul of Agliate, Simona proposes to stop at Villa Trotti Bentivoglio,
in Verano Brianza, and Clara agrees.
1. Do you want to stay with the two friends? Go to page 52.
2. Clara, who at first had agreed to follow her friend, receives a call
from her mother and has to go back home. Simona accompanies her,
then decides to join Marco in Groane Park (follow her on page 54).
3. Do you fancy going back to Biassono, but you do not have enough
time? Ask Simona to tell you about her trip with Marco. Go to page 26.
Astronaut Paolo Nespoli
a.
was born in Verano Brianz
In December 2010 he left
sion!
for a six month space mis
44
A stroll around
Verano Brianza
ro, and the
The mills along River Lamb
hout the village,
farmhouses scattered throug
once played
a
nz
ria
B
o
an
er
V
at
th
of
ro
are p
scene. Sightseeg
in
rm
fa
e
th
on
le
ro
ad
le
a
rotti Bentivoglio
ing wise, it features Villa T
eighteenth
(not open to the public), an
a vast park,
by
d
de
un
rro
su
e
nc
de
si
re
y
ur
cent
na of Caravaggio
on
ad
M
of
es
ch
ur
ch
e
th
d
an
Celsus.
and of St. Nazarious and
45
Awarded with DOP (PDO
Protected Designation of Origin)
certification in 1996: the Brianza
salami is the protagonist of
local appetizers. It is prepared
with minced shoulder,
straining, belly, throat and lean,
with salt, pepper, garlic
and wine. Maturation ranges
from 15 days to 5 months.
Caterina and Neighbor are on their way back to Monza, but they
do not want to go home so, without saying a word, they choose
a further stop. They leave Cesano Maderno and then the road
decides for them: nearby Limbiate, they bump into a big sign
indicating Villa Pusterla Arconati Crivelli. They follow it, feeling like Thelma and Louise in Brianza and, for a short while,
problems and schedules are forgotten and spontaneous decisions take their place. As soon as they reach the entrance of the
residence, Neighbor points at it and solemnly says:
- Did you know that even Napoleon was there one day?
- Yes, I have heard about it...
- I’m sure he would have liked my cassoeula!
- I think you’re right Neighbor…let’s go now, otherwise we will
be reported missing.
A quick U-turn takes them back on the way home. The radio
is playing a song and they begin to hum as if they were at the
Festival of Sanremo (the famous Italian music competition).
Villa Pusterla Arconati Crivelli
A true celebration of neoclassical style, the villa
was built in the XVIII century according to architect Francesco Croce’s design. In 1797 it was home
to Napoleon Bonaparte’s headquarters. The emperor
also chose it as the setting for the double wedding of his sisters Paulina and Elisa, who respectively married General Leclerc and Felice Baciocchi. After 1865 it was converted into a psychiatric
hospital for almost a century and today it houses
the Technical Institute of Agriculture.
It is open to the public during the event “Ville
Aperte in Brianza”.
e
t
a
i
b
m
Li
1. If they keep singing off-key jump of the women’s car and
join Simona in Briosco. Go to page 52.
2. If you think Caterina and her Neighbor are nice, keep
on reading about their trip towards Monza and go to page 62.
3. Have you ever met Agostino, Giuseppe’s childhood mate?
If you want to get and know him, go to page 50.
46
47
Fiore did not find the woman of his dreams in Seregno so, after wandering
up and down the town center, he decided to give up and asked his friend
Marco if he wanted to call at the LIPU Oasis of Cesano Maderno. As soon
as they get back on the wrecked car they have to persuade a bee, which
seems to have been trapped inside for a long time judging from the way
it is nervously buzzing against the windshield, to leave the cockpit. While
Marco is trying to direct it towards the open door, his friend says:
- That’s strange, I didn’t see it before. How did it get in?
- Fiore, your car has more holes than Swiss cheese! It must have got
in while we were patrolling Seregno. Are you sure this dream woman
really exists?
- Uhhh! Of course she does! And don’t offend my car! After all it has
taken you on all your best trips!
- I apologize...
The bee decides to head to the sky and the two settle in their seats.
The car starts after a couple of attempts and, once they have crossed
the Central Brianza Park, the two friends are on their way to the oasis. A
swarm is following them. Maybe, sooner or later, they will realize there
is a hive in the engine of Fiore’s car... and it is no surprise as everybody
knows that bees love flowers (fiori, in Italian)!
1. If you want to go back in search of Fiore’s dream woman, return
to Seregno, on page 40.
2. Marco invites Fiore to Monza to dine with the Brambillas. His friend
accepts and they head together towards page 62. Do you want to join in?
3. Marco misses Simona and joins her in Briosco. Guide him to page 52.
48
LIPU Oasis in Cesano Maderno
Founded in 1997 thanks to LIPU (Italian League
for Bird Protection), the Council of Cesano Maderno
and Groane Park, the oasis covers about 100 hectare
woodlands, moors and wetlands. Qualified staff and
volunteers are involved in the protection of local bird
life, in a green area surrounded by an urbanized and
industrialized context.
www.oasicesanomaderno.it
49
- Agostino, I have argued with Caterina...
- That’s nothing new, Giuseppe!
- I know that, but I’m in my car in Vimercate right now, where
are you?
- I have just cycled up to Bellusco, I was thinking of going to the
Centrale Esterle in Cornate d’Adda. If you come and pick me up
we can go there together.
- Ok, wait for me, I’m coming!
The friend soon joins him, the bike is put in the car and they
leave: destination Cornate d’Adda. Shortly after, while crossing
Mezzago, Agostino interrupts their knowing silence:
- Why didn’t we go to the Asparagus Festival last year?
- What are you talking about?
- I’m sure we didn’t go, Giuseppe. The problem is I don’t remember why...
- Listen, I don’t remember why, too. I’m afraid our memory is
starting to fade, Agostino. But we won’t miss it this year, will we?
- Of course!
The two men soon reach Esterle hydroelectric power plant (Centrale Esterle), the only site in Brianza they’re never tired with. For
the record: they actually went to the Asparagus Festival last year.
1. After learning that Caterina is out and about with Neighbor,
Agostino (who has a thing for the latter) convinces Giuseppe
to join them! Go with them to page 46.
2. You are tired: you want to go back to Monza and wait until
everybody is back for dinner. Go to page 62.
3. Before going back to Monza, Giuseppe leaves his friend
and decides to go for a walk in the North Adda Park. If you want
to follow him go to page 60.
Mezzago is the home
of the pink asparagus,
a variety celebrated
throughout Italy for
its unique color and taste.
50
Cornate d’Adda
Esterle hydroelectric power plant
The hollow noise
produced by the
turbines and the
roar of the water
released from the
machines mesmerize
who happens to vis it
Esterle hydroelectric power plant. This fac
ility, the most powerful along River Adda, was
opened in 1914. It is fed with 80 cubic met
ers
of water per second, which fall from 39 met
ers
height and are collected by the penstocks.
The
feed channel is about 5 km long, flowing alm
ost
entirely in a tunnel. Its elegant architect
ure
makes it one of Lombardy’s most popular
industrial archaeology sites.
edadda.eu
t
a
n
r
o
c
@
o
c
lo
o
pr
Info:
a.eu
www.cornatedadd
51
- And then, am I a boring person? - Clara asks once they get in the car.
The fact that the young man fell asleep last night really irritates her.
- Come on! What are your saying now? – answers Simona while she’s
trying to suppress the last of a long series of yawns – I just think that
on a first date you should talk about easy things. Well, moons and
tides are… Try and understand me, Clara. We find them interesting
because we have been studying them for our whole life. You are following me, aren’t you?
- I’ve always thought these things were so poetic...
- Well, that’s just your personal opinion! Why don’t we go
for a stroll around the Park of Contemporary Art in Briosco?
- That would be nice, but I can’t: I have promised my mother
that I would be back as soon as possible; some relatives of ours
are coming for dinner. As usual, such situations drive her insane!
o
c
s
o
i
Br
Open April to October,
on Saturdays and Sundays.
Guided visits on request
(335/5378472).
Sculptures
in the
park
Rossini Foundation Park
of Contemporary Art
An exhibition pavilion designed by American architect James Wines, founder of the “Site” movement, and a garden, open to the public, featuring large sculptures, which add a hint of
imagination and colour to Brianza’s landscape.
Namely, the Pietro Rossini Foundation: a collection
including works by contemporary masters like Pietro
Consagra, César and Denis Oppenheim.
Info: www.fondazionepietrorossini.it
52
Simona heads for Giussano, where her friend lives. They keep on chatting about boyfriends and first dates, followed by the surrounding landscape. Once she leaves Clara, Simona decides to go to Briosco anyway,
for a last break before heading home. The park of Contemporary Art of
the Rossini Foundation is a magical place able to sooth even the most
tormented souls; a walk among its works of art, immersed in beautiful
nature, may turn a gloomy day into a bright one. Vivid colors and the
best artistic creations: Simona Brambilla is finally in harmony with the
world.
1. Caterina calls Simona and asks her to join her in Limbiate.
The girl decides to please her and accepts. Go to page 46.
2. Simona is curious to know where her father is, so she rings him
on his mobile before she gets home. She finds out he is in North Adda
Park and joins him. Send her to page 60.
3. Simona misses Marco. Turn the page and let them meet
in Groane Park.
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When you are in the LIPU Oasis of Cesano Maderno you are irresistibly attracted by the Groane Park. Marco is no exception and decides
to go there before heading back for Monza. A last glace of green
Brianza, before enjoying Caterina’s tasty risotto alla luganega. Just
the thought of that delicious dish recalls memories of Lazzate, not
far from there, and of its summer festival where you can taste the
best specialties of the territory. The Brambillas and he never miss an
edition. Marco has spent a lovely day out, now it is time to go back
home, happy and satisfied.
1. Marco is finally heading back towards Monza, follow him to page 62.
2. Marco remembers he has left his mobile phone in Canonica
Lambro. While he is approaching the village he recalls the aperitif
he had with the Brambillas. Were you there when the Brambilla
family gathered for a Bianchino and olives? If you want
to experience that moment once again go to page 30.
3. Simona calls Marco, who joins her in Briosco. Go to page 52.
GROANE PARK
Groane Park is a protected
area that covers over 3 00
hectares surrounded by the
provinces of Milan and
Monza
and
Brianza.
It occupies one of the
most remarkable semi-natural
areas in the Lombard plain; moorland with a very
special geological history. The surface, which formed
in the Pleistocene (roughly 50,000 years ago), is
made up of clay layers rich in iron oxides, which
make it coarse and hard to farm. For this very reason here nature is better preserved than elsewhere:
the 650 acres of woodland and moorland are still
among the most southern in Europe.
www.parcogroane.it - tel. 02/9698141
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55
You cannot walk through the Monza Park or visit the Villa without enjoying a ride along the Lambro Valley Park cycle path!
It would be a real pity! Marco and Simona do it whenever they
can get on their bikes (a professional one for him and an old
fashioned wreck for her). They head off for long rides, in the
green, losing track of time and forgetting everyday’s depressing routine. Each time they count the mills along the river,
racing as if they were young kids. The wind in their hair, the
fresh air and the warm sunshine at their back is just priceless,
and makes them feel free and happy. When Simona is driven
by generosity – but it does not happen that often - the trip
includes a huge packed lunch, to enjoy in some cool and quiet
spot. On such special days Marco would have a nap or read a
book while Simona, barefoot and jeans rolled up, would contemplate nature feeling lost in its perfection
On those unique and magic occasions Simona’s heart would be
filled with happiness; her spirit placated.
which, following the river for 25 kilometers, crosses
the very heart of Brianza. It is situated between
Monza Royal Villa south, and the lakes of Pusiano
Lambro
Valley Park
Memories of a day
in the park...
The Lambro Valley Park is a true ecological corridor
and Alserio, in province of Lecco, north. The lake
area embraces wetlands and woodlands featuring
ashes and white hornbeams, which stretch deep
Simo
and
Marco
into the rolling hills of the lively landscape. The
section part of the province of Monza and Brianza
boasts several precious historic villas and gardens.
Info: www.parcovallelambro.it
Tel. 0362/970961, 0362/997137
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Tiny valleys, ditches and streams
characterize the topography of the
park in the area between Monza
Royal Villa and Triuggio. From
Canonica Lambro, in particular,
Cycling itinerary with Simona in the park
Giussano
Villa Raverio
you can leave the river and
follow the left bank of the
Pecorino, a stream hidden
by locust trees, hornbeams,
ashes and maples, sycamores and elder. Pictur-
Seregno
Sovico
Lesmo
Macherio
esque farmhouses, lead to another stream, the Cantalupo,
Arcore
Oreno
and finally to Triuggio.
skirting the park of
Villa Don Bosco.
MONZA
1. Simona, finally cheered up, decides to resume her undergraduate
duties. Get her back to routine on page 36.
2. You like Brianza’s parks, so you decide to continue your nature walk.
Turn the page to join Giuseppe and go to North Adda Park with him.
3. Marco wakes up from his siesta and decides to go to Groane Park
with Simona. Send them to page 54.
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Giuseppe leaves Agostino and decides to go to North Adda Park:
he wants another break before going home. This is by far his
favorite place. It holds so many memories of his past life that,
every time he happens to be wondering along Brianza’ banks,
among poplars and willows, it is like leafing through the photo
album of his life. Giuseppe retraces the footsteps of Leonardo
and thinks it is so strange and magical to find evidence that
such a great scientist lived right there, in that strip of Brianza
where he often goes walking and “meditating”.
He had been there with Caterina, hand in hand, or had discussed serious staff with Agostino. And in that very spot, ages
ago, Simona had grazed her knee and cried in a way that tore
his heart apart. And, there again, he had tried to have an ice
cream that melted in his hands before he could enjoy it, wearing a hat to protect him from the sun, immersed in the wise silence of nature, now and then interrupted by giggles of couples
in love pretending to fight. How many faces, colors and beautiful views! What a long way marked by the weight of his own
steps and by life passing by! Giuseppe suddenly cannot wait.
He feels it is time to join his family and hurries away. The day
is drawing to a close, but memories and the irresistible appeal
of the territory are not.
1. Giuseppe goes back home. Go to page 62 with him.
2. If you want Mr. Brambilla to join Caterina in Desio, guide
him to page 34.
3. This walk surrounded by green landscapes and memories
has made you gloomy, so you decide you need another stop
before returning to Monza. Go to page 52 to end the day in
Briosco with Simona.
www.parcoaddanord.it
tel. 02/9091229
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In North Adda Park, which covers 7,400 hectares set between the provinces of Milan, Monza
and Brianza, Lecco and Bergamo, nature blends
with hydraulic engineering works dating back to
the early XX century, as well as with Leonardo’s
inventions. From the locks designed for building
the Naviglio canal at Paderno’s bridge, to, Cornate d’Adda hydroelectric power plant, to the
factory Village of Crespi d’Adda.
L eo nard o’s Ecom useu m
From Robbiate to Cornate d’Adda Power
Plant, spot the views in Leonardo’s paintings
and discover the Renaissance genius’ project
for the Naviglio canal.
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Back home. Everybody is back in Monza!
Somebody has studied, somebody has smiled, and others have managed to fight most of the time. Now such demanding day is nearly over,
everybody is waiting for Caterina’ famous Risotto, a dish able to sooth
any soul. A magic specialty that keeps the whole family quiet, restoring harmony. Unbelievable but true! The Brambillas love their town
and actively participate in all the cultural and fun events organized
by the province and by its 55 councils: today’s experience adds to the
long list of opportunities for visiting villages, parks and villas. And that
is not all! Caterina and Giuseppe attend every single colorful summer
festival, where they regularly dance among the crowd of fine dancers,
proudly getting all the steps wrong. Simona and Marco love getting on
their bikes and following the tracks recommended by the guides, discovering new special places and tasting local products. Caterina often
drags Neighbor to visit some museum. She has always loved the sense
of time you can sense in those buildings, and, even if she would not
even be able to explain it to herself, she feels they treasure memory:
something which is so useful for the present. In front of a statue of Our
Lady, she might weep and feel loving and sympathetic glances upon
her. During those blissful moments, Caterina Brambilla thanks fate for
her homeland, Brianza.
Table of contents
Arcore Pan tranvai Villa Borromeo d’Adda Vela Chapel 28
29
29
29
Biassono Villa Verri 26
27
Briosco Rossini
Foundation Park
of Contemporary Art
52
Canonica Lambro Luganega Monzese Risotto
Sanctuary of Santa Maria
Assunta (Rancate) Villa Taverna 30
32
33
Carate Brianza 36
62
30
31
46
Lissone Cassoeula Museum
of Contemporary Art 38
38
Mezzago Pink asparagus 50
50
47
39
Monza 8, 12, 14, 16, 62
Arengario 9
Golf Club 15
Milk cake 10
Monza Park 17
Monza Royal Villa 17
Museum and Treasury
of the Duomo of Monza 13
Race Track 15
North Adda Park Leonardo’s Ecomuseum
60
61
Seregno Barbarossa’s Tower
40
41
Cesano Maderno 42, 48
LIPU Oasis 49
Palazzo Arese Borromeo 43
Vedano al Lambro Marrowbones Villa Litta 20
20
21
Cornate d’Adda Esterle hydroelectric
power plant
50
Verano Brianza Villa Trotti Bentivoglio 44
45
51
Desio Villa Cusani Tittoni
Traversi 34
Groane Park 54
Lambro Valley Park
56
Vimercate 18, 22, 24
MUST 23
Palazzo Trotti 25
San Rocco Bridge 24
Villa Gallarati Scotti
(Oreno) 19
Villa Sottocasa 23
za
Souvenir photo in Mon
52
Limbiate Villa Pusterla Arconati
Crivelli Basilica and Baptistery
of Agliate Villa Cusani
Confalonieri 37
37
35
lla
i
b
m
Bra aly
.
m
Fa
It
a
Monz
The end ...
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