Palazzo Castiglioni

Palazzo Castiglioni, located at Corso Venezia 47 in Milan, is one of the most famous examples of Art Nouveau architecture in Italy, designed by architect Giuseppe Sommaruga between 1901 and 1904. Commissioned by entrepreneur Ermenegildo Castiglioni, the building represents a challenge to the aesthetic standards of the time and a manifesto of the new style, characterized by the use of precious materials and elaborate decorations aimed at creating a total work of art. The main facade of the palace, facing Corso Venezia, is a majestic work that caused a sensation since its inauguration. Originally, above the entrance portal, there were two statues of female figures sculpted by Ernesto Bazzaro, representing peace and industry. However, these statues were soon removed due to public criticism that deemed them excessively provocative. This episode earned the palace the popular nickname of “Ca’ di ciapp” (House of buttocks), referring to the nudity of the sculptures. Sommaruga’s project for Palazzo Castiglioni aimed to break with tradition and introduce innovative elements. The facade, with its rough rusticated base and stucco decorations inspired by the 18th century, represents a bold example of blending ancient and modern styles. The use of materials such as pink granite for the Ionic columns and attention to craftsmanship details are emblematic of the Art Nouveau approach, which saw architecture as an integrated art. Inside, the palace was no less impressive. The monumental staircase, decorated with wrought iron and lamps by Alessandro Mazzucotelli, led to the upper floors, where the main rooms overlooked the courtyard. Unfortunately, the interiors suffered serious damage during the American troops’ occupation in 1945, who destroyed much of the furnishings using them as firewood. In 1967, due to high maintenance costs, the heirs of the Castiglioni family sold the palace to the Union of Commerce, which transformed it into offices while preserving some of its original features, such as the entrance, staircase, and some rooms on the noble floor. This intervention sparked controversy, especially from Art Nouveau scholars like Rossana Bossaglia, who called for the building to be turned into a museum. The historical context in which Palazzo Castiglioni was built is crucial to understanding its importance. At the beginning of the 20th century, Milan was undergoing industrial and urban transformation, and Art Nouveau represented the desire for modernity and progress. However, Milanese society at the time was still strongly conservative, and Sommaruga’s project’s audacity was not immediately understood or accepted. Today, Palazzo Castiglioni is recognized as a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture and a symbol of Milan’s artistic innovation. Its history reflects the tensions and changes of a crucial era for the city, and its preservation pays tribute to the ingenuity and creativity of its designer. The importance of Palazzo Castiglioni goes beyond its architecture. It is a witness to early 20th-century Milan, a city balancing between tradition and modernity, conservatism and progress. The story of the removed statues and the subsequent transformation of the building tell a tale of contrasts and controversies, but also of an irresistible push towards the new.