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Naviglio Grande is a canal in Milan that is now a popular area lined with restaurants and some nightclubs. It runs for nearly 50km from the Porta Ticinese dock, also known as Darsena, to the Ticino River near Tornavento.
History
Naviglio Grande was the most important of five interconnected canals around Milan called the Navigli. It dates back to 1157 when it originated as an irrigation ditch. The canal reached Milan by 1258 and was completely navigable by 1272, but the main function was still irrigation.
When construction of the Duomo began in 1386, the canal was instrumental in carrying stone and marble from quarries outside the city. This solidified its importance as a shipping canal, which continued until March 30, 1979. On that day, the last cargo ship unloaded sand at the Darsena. Since then, the canal has once again been used for irrigation.
The Canal Today
As mentioned previously, there are several restaurants that line Naviglio Grande. We walked along a small section of it and had lunch before heading back to the city center.
In the summer, it’s possible to take a day cruise down Naviglio Grande to see small towns and villages along the canal. We were there in winter so the cruises weren’t running, but we did see some rowers.
Santa Maria delle Grazie al Naviglio
Finally, there’s one church we noticed on the canal, Santa Maria delle Grazie al Naviglio. The first church was built on the spot in 1556 and the current church dates back to 1908.
Getting There
To get to Naviglio Grande, take the metro to P.ta Genova FS. From there it’s just a short walk to the canal.
