Overview
The green lung of Brianza
At 700 hectares, Monza Park is one of the largest enclosed parks in Europe. It dates back to 1805, when it was created by order of Emperor Napoleon. Today, the Park is a true jewel of Lombardy where locals and tourists alike can stop to relax in nature, enjoy outdoor sports or visit one of the many cultural treasures encompassed within this green space.
Starting with the Villa Reale, or Reggia di Monza, a true Italian Versailles: an elegant yet majestic building, it amazes visitors with the grandeur of its 700 rooms and the variety of exhibitions and shows held there every year. The Villa is surrounded by English-style Gardens, with the Swan Lake and its small temple and Neptune’s Grotto. Also worthy of a visit is the Neo-Gothic turret with its walls.
But the park also keeps its rustic character alive thanks to the numerous farmsteads dotted around the area, such as Cascina San Fedele, Cascina Bastia and Cascina Frutteto. On the Viale Mulino del Cantone, you will come across a gigantic installation, 10 metres high: it is Lo Scrittore (The Writer), a huge table and chair symbolising the loneliness of every author.
The best way to visit the park is on a bike, but younger visitors will love the panoramic train. Keep your eyes wide open to spot the animals that populate the area, from rabbits to ducks, from squirrels to foxes. Then you can enjoy a picnic in the sun on the large lawn.
