Asilo Sant'Elia
A rationalist architectural gem by Giuseppe Terragni, Asilo Sant'Elia showcases innovative design despite its current state of disrepair.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Special openings and events
Asilo Sant'Elia
Best Time
Special openings and events
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rationalist architectural gem by Giuseppe Terragni, Asilo Sant'Elia showcases innovative design despite its current state of disrepair.
"An absolute masterpiece, well-preserved. A truly moving visit. Absolutely not to be missed."
📅 Book in Advance
Visits are often limited to special events or require advance booking. Check event schedules!
🏛️ Check for Openings
The building's accessibility varies. Look for events like the Lake Como Design Festival for guaranteed access.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Terragni's Rationalist Design
Entire building
Experience the harmonious proportions and precise geometries of this iconic rationalist masterpiece.
Innovative Pedagogical Approach
Interior spaces
Discover a modern conception of a nursery school, with large windows and exceptional window systems for its time.
The 'Tree of Punishment'
Courtyard
A nostalgic spot for some, this tree holds personal memories and adds a unique touch to the architectural visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Asilo Sant'Elia
+1Preservation and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📅 Book in Advance
Visits are often limited to special events or require advance booking. Check event schedules!
🏛️ Check for Openings
The building's accessibility varies. Look for events like the Lake Como Design Festival for guaranteed access.
🙏 Support Preservation
Learn about local efforts to preserve this architectural gem.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring the grounds and interior spaces, so comfortable footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
📅 Book in Advance
Visits are often limited to special events or require advance booking. Check event schedules!
🏛️ Check for Openings
The building's accessibility varies. Look for events like the Lake Como Design Festival for guaranteed access.
🙏 Support Preservation
Learn about local efforts to preserve this architectural gem.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring the grounds and interior spaces, so comfortable footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors laud Asilo Sant'Elia as an architectural masterpiece by Giuseppe Terragni, praising its innovative design and historical significance. However, many express deep disappointment and concern over the building's current state of disrepair and semi-abandoned condition, calling for urgent preservation and renovation.
"Shameful that authorities let this building in this terrible state. Shameful!"
Pilar Álvarez
"I was able to visit the Sant'Elia nursery school thanks to the Wonderlake Como association during the Lake Como Design Festival. An absolute masterpiece, well-preserved. A truly moving visit. Absolutely not to be missed."
Alessandro Dante
"Sant'Elia nursery school by architect Giuseppe Terragni. A construction that impresses with its modern conception and pedagogical construction approach, aspects not even slightly affected by time. It's a shame that the building is semi-abandoned; it would be nice to reactivate it or in any case renovate it for socio-cultural, neighborhood or museum use."
andrea riberti
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Asilo Sant'Elia is located in Como, Italy. While public transport can get you to Como, specific access to the Asilo itself is often tied to organized events or tours. It's best to check the latest information regarding access points and transportation during your planned visit.
Como is well-connected by public transport. However, direct public transport to the Asilo Sant'Elia might be limited due to its current status. It's advisable to use local buses or taxis once in Como, especially if attending a special event. :bus: :taxi:
Parking availability can be challenging in Como. If you are driving, look for public parking garages in the city center and be prepared for a walk or short taxi ride to the Asilo, especially if there isn't a dedicated event parking. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Visits to Asilo Sant'Elia are typically limited to special occasions, such as the Lake Como Design Festival or organized guided tours. It's crucial to check for upcoming events and book your visit in advance online.
Yes, when available, tickets or reservations are usually required for entry, especially during organized events. Keep an eye on the official websites of event organizers like Wonderlake Como or Maarc for booking information. :ticket:
Asilo Sant'Elia does not have regular public opening hours. Access is granted during specific events or pre-arranged tours. Check event schedules for precise timings.
Entrance fees, if any, are typically associated with the events or tours that grant access. Information on pricing will be available on the booking platforms for these specific occasions. :moneywithwings:
Independent visits are generally not possible due to the building's condition and status. Access is usually managed through organized tours or during specific festival periods.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside Asilo Sant'Elia during organized visits and events, but it's always good practice to confirm with your tour guide or event organizers. Capture the stunning rationalist details! :camerawithflash:
The large windows, the clean lines of the rationalist architecture, and the interior courtyard are prime spots for photography. The interplay of light and shadow is particularly striking.
While generally allowed, avoid using flash photography in sensitive areas or if it disturbs other visitors. Respect the historical nature of the site. :noflashsymbol:
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Asilo Sant'Elia is a prime example of Italian Rationalism, designed by the renowned architect Giuseppe Terragni. It showcases clean lines, geometric forms, and a functional approach to design.
It's celebrated for its modern conception of a nursery school, incorporating innovative features like large windows for natural light and advanced ventilation systems for its era.
Unfortunately, the building is described as being in a 'terrible state' and 'semi-abandoned' by visitors, with concerns about its preservation. +1
Yes, guided tours are often organized, particularly during special events like the Lake Como Design Festival. Booking in advance is usually mandatory.
Built in 1937, it represents a significant period of modernist architecture in Italy and was designed with a forward-thinking pedagogical approach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the architectural aspects that might capture a child's imagination, like the large windows and the open spaces. Some visitors recall personal childhood memories associated with the building, adding a unique layer to the visit.
Always check the specific event details for any age restrictions or suitability for children.🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
+1Be prepared for the building's current state of preservation, which is a significant talking point among visitors. Many appreciate the opportunity to see this masterpiece, even in its semi-abandoned condition, and understand the calls for its restoration. Visiting during organized tours or festivals like the Lake Como Design Festival offers the best chance for access and often includes expert commentary.
+1📸 Photographers
+1Focus on capturing the clean, rationalist aesthetic, the innovative window designs, and the overall spatial qualities. The courtyard, with its historical tree, also provides a charming element. Remember to respect any guidelines regarding photography during your visit, especially if attending a special event. :camerawithflash:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Giuseppe Terragni and Rationalism
+1Visitors often remark on the building's 'modern conception' and 'pedagogical construction approach,' noting how these aspects remain impressive despite the building's current state. The use of large windows to maximize natural light and the innovative window opening systems were particularly cutting-edge for the 1930s. These features not only contributed to a pleasant learning environment for children but also showcased Terragni's commitment to progressive design principles.
The building's design is a careful orchestration of volumes and voids, creating a sense of openness and connection with the surrounding environment. The clean lines and geometric precision are hallmarks of Rationalism, and Asilo Sant'Elia stands as a prime example of how these principles can be applied to create spaces that are both beautiful and highly functional. It's a structure that continues to inspire architects and design enthusiasts alike.
The State of Preservation and Community Calls for Action
This concern has fueled calls for renovation and reactivation. Visitors and locals alike suggest repurposing the building for 'socio-cultural, neighborhood or museum use'.
These efforts highlight a strong community desire to see this significant piece of architectural heritage restored and brought back to life for public benefit.The contrast between the building's architectural brilliance and its current condition is stark. While its design remains timeless and its innovative features are still admired, the physical neglect is a significant point of discussion. The hope is that increased awareness and continued advocacy will lead to the necessary restoration and a renewed purpose for Asilo Sant'Elia.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit