Cimiano

Cimiano Milan Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction to Cimiano: Milan’s Historic Neighborhood

Located in northeastern Milan, Cimiano is a neighborhood where centuries-old history, vibrant culture, and contemporary urban life blend seamlessly. Once a medieval rural settlement, Cimiano has witnessed profound transformation, evolving from an agricultural outpost to a dynamic, multicultural district. Its winding streets, distinctive architecture, and active community life offer a rewarding experience for travelers seeking an authentic Milanese adventure beyond the city’s main tourist areas.

This guide provides comprehensive information about Cimiano’s history, key attractions, visiting hours, ticketing, transportation, and practical travel tips. Whether your interests lie in architecture, local festivals, green spaces, or the rhythms of daily Milanese life, Cimiano promises an enriching urban journey. For up-to-date details, refer to sources such as the Dils Neighborhood Guide, Assab One, and the official Wikipedia page on Cimiano.

Discover Cimiano: Milan’s Historic Neighborhood
Origins and Historical Evolution
Key Cultural and Architectural Landmarks
Things to Do and Local Experiences
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility
Transportation and Getting Around
Community Life, Events, and Festivals
Nearby Attractions and Day Trips
FAQs

Discover Cimiano: Milan’s Historic Neighborhood

Cimiano is an inviting district characterized by its blend of historical depth and vibrant urban culture. Visitors will encounter traces of medieval autonomy, industrial innovation, and contemporary multiculturalism. The area’s Liberty-style villas, historic church, lively avenues, and green spaces capture the essence of a neighborhood that bridges Milan’s rich past with its dynamic present.

Origins and Historical Evolution

Etymology and Early History

Cimiano’s documented history dates back to the 10th century, with the name derived from “cimiliano,” meaning “next to Milan.” As a satellite settlement, Cimiano flourished as an independent rural comune during the Middle Ages, prospering from agriculture and trade along the Naviglio Martesana canal and Lambro River (Wikipedia).

Integration and Urban Transformation

The area remained autonomous until 1757, later merging with Crescenzago and becoming part of Milan in 1923 (Wikipedia). Industrialization in the late 19th and early 20th centuries brought factories, publishing houses, and new residential development, notably the Rizzoli publishing headquarters (Dils Neighborhood Guide).

With urbanization, Cimiano developed into a bustling, diverse neighborhood, renowned for its multicultural community and active neighborhood associations. Today, it is home to a broad spectrum of residents and hosts numerous community-driven projects and events (Dils Neighborhood Guide).

Key Cultural and Architectural Landmarks

Viale Don Orione

Viale Don Orione is a principal avenue named after Luigi Orione, connecting Via Padova with Viale Palmanova. This historic thoroughfare, completed after World War II, is lined with residential buildings, shops, and green spaces that exemplify Milanese suburban life (Urbanfile). The avenue is open to the public year-round.

Parco Lambro

Bordering Cimiano, Parco Lambro is one of Milan’s largest parks, featuring lawns, woods, the Lambro River, playgrounds, and sports facilities. It’s a hub for community events and outdoor recreation, open daily from 6:30 AM to 10:00 PM with free admission. The park is fully accessible with paved paths (Assab One).

Assab One

Housed in a converted industrial building, Assab One is a renowned contemporary art space near the Cimiano Metro Station. It regularly hosts exhibitions, workshops, and community projects, such as the multi-year “La Quinta Stagione” initiative. The gallery is open Wednesday to Friday, 3–7 PM, and select Saturdays by appointment. Entry is free for annual members; some events may require tickets. The venue is wheelchair accessible (Assab One).

Historic Church of San Giovanni Battista

Dating back to the early 17th century, the Church of San Giovanni Battista is a local landmark with Baroque elements and significant cultural importance. It remains active with religious services, festivals, and community events. The church is open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with free entry; guided tours are available on weekends with advance booking.

Cimiano Sports Center

This center is a local hub for athletics, home to the Cimiano Calcio youth football club and the annual Trofeo Italo Galbiati tournament. Facilities also include tennis courts and recreational spaces. Hours vary by activity, with most events free or low-cost (Cimiano Calcio).

Via Padova and Via Palmanova

Via Padova is famed for its multicultural atmosphere, with international restaurants, specialty shops, and vibrant street art. Via Palmanova connects Cimiano to other districts and major transit routes, serving as a bustling corridor of urban life (Assab One).

Things to Do and Local Experiences

Walk or Cycle the Naviglio Martesana: Enjoy scenic urban-nature excursions along this historic canal.
Explore Liberty-Style Villas: Admire early 20th-century architecture and unique industrial facades, such as the Guna Pharmaceuticals HQ (Dils Neighborhood Guide).
Attend Community Events: Join festivals in Parco Lambro, art openings at Assab One, or football tournaments.
Sample Local and International Cuisine: Experience Milanese and world flavors along Via Padova.
Visit Weekly Markets: Discover fresh produce and artisanal goods at the Cimiano Market.

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility

Site/Landmark	Visiting Hours	Tickets/Entry	Accessibility
Parco Lambro	6:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Daily)	Free	Wheelchair accessible
Assab One	Wed–Fri 3:00–7:00 PM; Sat by appt	Free for members (€10/year); some events ticketed	Wheelchair accessible
San Giovanni Battista Church	Tue–Sun 9:00 AM–6:00 PM	Free; donations welcome	Wheelchair accessible
Cimiano Sports Center	Varies by activity	Usually free or low-cost	Accessible amenities
Viale Don Orione, Via Padova	Public streets, shops 9 AM–9 PM	Free	Fully accessible

Note: For guided tours and special events, check official websites for schedules and booking requirements.

Transportation and Getting Around

Metro and Public Transport

Metro Line 2 (Green Line): Cimiano station connects directly to Milan’s city center and major attractions (Il Fatto Quotidiano).
Buses: Lines 44, 51, and 53 connect Cimiano to neighboring districts.
Bike Sharing: The BikeMi system offers traditional and e-bikes with nearby docking stations (BikeMi).
Accessibility: The metro station has elevators and tactile paving; most buses are low-floor and wheelchair accessible (ATM Accessibility).

Tickets and Fares

Standard Ticket: €2.20, valid for 90 minutes across metro, bus, and tram.
Tourist Passes: 24-hour (€7.60) and 3-day (€13.00) unlimited travel.
Where to Buy: Metro stations, newsstands, and the ATM Milano Official App.

Travel Tips

Validate tickets before boarding; fines start at €50.
Use the ATM Milano app for route planning and real-time updates.
Night buses ensure late-night travel after metro hours.

Community Life, Events, and Festivals

Cimiano’s calendar features:

Feast of St. John the Baptist (June 24): Processions, music, and communal meals at San Giovanni Battista Church.
Neighborhood Festivals: Regular events in Parco Lambro and community spaces.
Art Exhibitions and Concerts: Hosted at Assab One and the church.
Football Tournaments: Annual youth competitions at Cimiano Sports Center.

For event details, check parish announcements, Assab One’s website, and local event listings.

Nearby Attractions and Day Trips

Cimiano’s strategic location makes it a great base for exploring Milan’s renowned sites:

Duomo di Milano: 9:00 AM–7:00 PM, tickets €3–€15 (Duomo Official Site).
Castello Sforzesco: 7:00 AM–7:30 PM, museum entry €10.
Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio: 7:00 AM–12:00 PM & 2:30 PM–6:30 PM, free entry.
Parco Adriano and San Raffaele Hospital: Nearby for relaxation or medical needs.
Day Trips: Regional trains from nearby stations offer access to Lake Como and Bergamo (Road Affair).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do I need tickets to visit Cimiano’s main attractions?
A: Most public sites (parks, churches, main streets) are free. Some exhibitions or guided tours may require tickets.

Q: Is Cimiano accessible for visitors with mobility challenges?
A: Yes, major sites and public transport are equipped for accessibility.

Q: How do I get to Cimiano from Milan city center?
A: Take Metro Line 2 (Green Line) directly to Cimiano station; journey time is about 20 minutes.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Some local associations and venues offer tours; check online or at visitor centers for current options.

Q: What is the best time to visit Cimiano?
A: Spring and autumn provide pleasant weather and a full calendar of events.

Summary and Visitor Recommendations

Cimiano is a multifaceted district that offers a unique window into Milan’s layered history, cultural vibrancy, and everyday life. Its accessible location via Metro Line 2, rich architectural heritage, and diverse community activities make it a rewarding destination for travelers. Whether you’re exploring the historic Church of San Giovanni Battista, relaxing in Parco Lambro, enjoying art at Assab One, or discovering culinary delights along Via Padova, Cimiano invites you to experience Milan beyond the typical tourist trail.