Hidden Treasures of Martesana
In the rush of modern life, we often lose sight of the profound impact of art. Rediscovering it in unexpected places — such as along the Naviglio Martesana — is a fascinating experience: here, art isn’t confined to museums, but reveals itself in settings where time seems to stand still.
In this section, we explore these hidden gems, especially those found in churches and chapels. We are talking about frescoes that narrate biblical stories, wooden sculptures that convey deep spirituality, and paintings that reflect the artistic genius of the past.
The concept of “rediscovered art” goes beyond traditional works. It also embraces elements that, though seemingly distant from conventional art, have the power to reveal new ways of seeing the world. It might be an unexpected architectural detail, an ancient sundial, or the tools of long-forgotten crafts — elevated to true artisanal skills. We invite you to explore the area with a curious eye, recognizing art in all its forms as a way to discover new perspectives and connections with the past.
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St. Francis Church
Pozzuolo Martesana
Around the mid-15th century, the church was decorated with frescoes, some traces of which still remain today. Artistic activity gradually declined in the following centuries, until further modifications were made during the Baroque period.
MAiO Museum
Cassina de’ Pecchi
Inside MAiO Museum, a multimedia station with 3D videos presents copies of artworks still considered cultural “prisoners of war”. Among the many masterpieces is the “Head of a Faun”, Michelangelo’s first known sculpture.
The Church of Santa Maria Rossa
Crescenzago
The church once housed a triptych by Bergognone depicting Saints Agnes, Catherine, and Cecilia. Today, the painting is part of the collection of the Diocesan Museum of Milan. In 1779, large burial cavities were discovered beneath the church floor.
The Sanctuary of Santa Maria Nuova al Pilastrello
Vimodrone
The Baroque altar is particularly noteworthy. An 18th-century fresco depicts “a pious image of the Virgin holding the Infant Jesus in her arms” (1704). In 1868, the church was enriched with a valuable collection of liturgical objects, vestments, and inlaid furnishings. The decoration of the chapel’s vault was painted in 1889 by Luigi Tagliaferri of Lecco.
The Mural Works
Cassina de’ Pecchi
Throughout the Martesana area, visitors can admire a number of mural works rich in symbolic meaning. From the “Partisan Courier” in Pozzuolo Martesana, to those dedicated to ancient crafts along the streets of Cassina de’ Pecchi, and, again, the imposing “Nova Melzo” mural in Melzo.
