Porta Garibaldi

Porta Garibaldi, located in the northern part of Milan, is an important historical and architectural landmark of the city. Originally called Porta Comasina, the current structure was designed by Giacomo Moraglia and completed between 1826 and 1828 to celebrate the visit of Emperor Francis I of Austria. The neoclassical arch, with its Doric columns and customs booths, is a symbol of Austrian power over northern Italy during the 19th century. The history of Porta Garibaldi is deeply connected to the historical and political events of Milan. In 1848, during the Five Days of Milan, the gate was the scene of clashes between Milanese patriots and Austrian troops. This event marked the beginning of the Italian Risorgimento, a movement that culminated in the unification of Italy. The gate was later renamed in honor of Giuseppe Garibaldi, the hero of the Risorgimento who triumphantly entered the city in 1859 after the victories of Varese and San Fermo. In the following years, Porta Garibaldi became a hub for transportation and commerce. The opening of the Porta Garibaldi railway station in 1961 further solidified the area’s importance as a transportation hub, making it one of the busiest stations in Milan. The area around Porta Garibaldi has undergone significant urban transformation in recent decades. The urban redevelopment project has led to the construction of new skyscrapers and public spaces, creating a modern financial and residential district. Among the most iconic buildings in the area are the Garibaldi Towers, renovated in 2012, and the Unicredit Tower, which at 231 meters is the tallest skyscraper in Italy. Piazza Gae Aulenti, located near Porta Garibaldi, has become a new landmark for the city. This modern square, designed by Argentine architect César Pelli, is surrounded by contemporary buildings and hosts numerous cultural and commercial events. The square, with its fountains, green areas, and sculptures, is an example of how Milan has successfully combined tradition and innovation in a harmonious way. Porta Garibaldi is not only a historical symbol, but also a place of social and cultural gathering. The area is home to numerous bars, restaurants, and shops, attracting both residents and tourists. Its proximity to Corso Como, one of the liveliest streets in Milan, makes Porta Garibaldi a popular destination for nightlife and shopping. The Rainbow Tower, another symbol of the area, has recently been renovated and illuminated with an LED lighting system, making it visible from across the city. This colorful tower is an example of how art and architecture can enhance the urban environment. An interesting anecdote concerns the plague epidemic of 1630, described in Alessandro Manzoni’s “The Betrothed.” According to chronicles, a deserter soldier of the Landsknechts, Pietro Antonio Lovato, entered Milan through Porta Garibaldi carrying the plague, which quickly spread throughout the city. This tragic event is an example of how the history of Porta Garibaldi is intertwined with the most dramatic and significant events of the city.