Milan plots return to golden age of canals
After years of neglect, plans are afoot to restore the canal network of Milan to its former glory.
Lombardy Canals, the agency which oversees canals in northern Italy, intends to raise funding to bring repair work to a network that once rivalled that of Venice in terms of its beauty.
In fact, Leonardo Da Vinci is said to have worked on lock designs for the canals while he was working as a court engineer around 1500.
The advent of road and rail transport spelt the end for Milan's canals from a trade perspective, but the Pavia Canal, Darsena, Naviglio Grande and Naviglio della Martesana remain points of historical interest.
Lombardy Canals now needs to raise €1 billion (£0.7 billion) to rebuild Milan's canals, with almost a third of that earmarked for embankments running alongside key industrial, agricultural and historical sites, Reuters reports.
Commenting on the task, Emanuele Errico, chairman of Lombardy Canals, said: "This density of canals joining a great city to the surrounding countryside is an example that is almost unique in the world."
It is hoped that the 94-mile network can become an attractive feature for visitors, with cycling holidays, hotels and restaurants among the suggested projects.
Boat tours already operate along the waterways, while the flea market alongside the Darsena and the artists' stalls along the Naviglio Grande are also well worth a visit.
Take a short break in Milan.
| Bookmark with: | ||||
 Delicious |  Digg |  reddit |  Facebook |  StumbleUpon |
Recommended Milan Breaks
4* Nasco Hotel Milan from £297
The Nasco Hotel Milan is a traditional style hotel with 76 recently renovated rooms. The hotel has a breakfast room and 'Nasco Lounge Bar' in which you can enjoy an afternoon...
More Info
4* Hilton Milan from £473
The modern Hilton Milan Hotel has 319 comfortable bedrooms. The hotel is conveniently situated close to the famous Fashion Triangle, La Scala Opera House, San Siro Stadium and the...
More Info
4* Hotel Straf Milan from £483
The Hotel Straf in Milan is a luxury boutique hotel. The hotel has 64 rooms and suites combining contemporary design, functionality and comfort. Architect Vincenzo De Cotiis, has...
More Info
4* Hotel de la Ville from £563
The Hotel de la Ville is a traditional hotel with 109 comfortable bedrooms. There is a swimming pool on the 6th floor with a retractable roof, and wellness centre with a gym, sauna...
More Info
5* Le Meridien Gallia from £565
The Le Méridien Gallia in Milan is a luxury hotel with an art nouveau façade. The hotel which opened in 1932, features 237 rooms and suites, the Ristorante Gallia and Baboon Bar....
More Info
Milan Articles
Get the Red Arrow from Milan to Rome
La Scala in Milan
Leonardo da Vinci Museum in Milan
Brera Art Gallery in Milan
Noel Noel in Milan
Shop till you drop in Milan
Milan
Latest Articles
Get the Red Arrow from Milan to Rome
Send to a Friend
Email Newsletter
Subscribe to the Railbookers newsletter for all our latest special offers and news.
