Lainate: Villa Litta, Il Lazzaretto and Cycling Route

Villa Borromeo Visconti Litta and the cycling route in Parco del Lura offer two different ways to experience Lainate: architectural history and outdoor activity. Il Lazzaretto adds a reminder of the plague of 1630 to the historical side. If you are looking for a hotel in Lainate, you can plan your stay around your preferred focus—historic architecture, local remembrance, or cycling.

Villa Litta: Architecture and Ninfeo

Villa Borromeo Visconti Litta was designed around 1585 by Count Pirro I Visconti Borromeo and modelled on Tuscan Medici villas. The villa’s Ninfeo was built between 1585 and 1589. The design of the villa and the construction period of the Ninfeo therefore represent different stages in its architectural history.

The Ninfeo comprises rooms with mosaics made of white and black pebbles, as well as mosaics made of pebbles painted in tempera colours. The decoration combines different treatments of the same material: contrasts created by the colours of the stones and tempera painting. Fully restored water features and water pranks are also part of the Ninfeo. Visiting hours may vary, so check the dates in advance if you are planning a visit.

Il Lazzaretto and Local History

Il Lazzaretto is a funerary chapel built in memory of the victims of the plague of 1630. Unlike Villa Litta, with its architectural design, the chapel focuses on remembrance of the plague victims. The villa’s architectural history, dating to around 1585, and the commemoration of the plague of 1630 therefore provide two different historical reference points. Il Lazzaretto can be reached via the Sentiero del Lazzaretto. Check the local trail conditions before your visit.

Cycling in Parco del Lura

Itinerario 1 is the main route through Parco del Lura. It runs from north to south for approximately 26 kilometres between the hills of Bulgarograsso and the cycle path along the Canale Villoresi. The route is part of the Via dei Pellegrini, European route EuroVelo No. 5. This description thus combines a specific direction and approximate length with the route’s connection to a European cycling route.

The cycling route in Parco del Lura is suitable for family outings and bike rides. It can be ridden in one direction; on Saturdays and public holidays, you can return by train with Ferrovie Nord. If you are planning a one-way ride, check the current train timetables independently before setting out. You should also check the local trail conditions in advance.

The ACI-Sara Safe Driving Centre

The ACI-Sara Safe Driving Centre in Lainate has five different areas where various hazardous situations are realistically recreated. This adds another theme to the historic sites and cycling route: experiencing simulated hazardous situations at the driving centre.

Discover more destinations: Ossona, Gudo Visconti, Pioltello, Cassina de’ Pecchi, Vermezzo, Arconate, Rodano, Carugate

Return to the main travel overview: Milan.