Naviglio Sforzesco
A historical canal commissioned by the Sforza family, largely covered underground, with visible remnants offering a glimpse into Milan's past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Naviglio Sforzesco
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historical canal commissioned by the Sforza family, largely covered underground, with visible remnants offering a glimpse into Milan's past.
"It is a part of the ancient canal, commissioned by the Sforza family, which flows outdoors, in the stretch between the Covered Market and the entrance to the Rocca Vecchia."
Look for the Signs
Naviglio Sforzesco is not well-signposted; keep an eye out for it on maps or by noticing the canal's presence. :world_map:
Combine with Nearby Sites
Explore the Covered Market or Rocca Vecchia nearby to make the most of your visit. 🚶
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4 · 4 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Visible Canal Stretch
Outdoor sections between Covered Market and Rocca Vecchia
Witness a segment of the historic Sforza canal, a rare glimpse into Milan's past waterway system.
Historical Context
Surrounding areas
Understand the canal's role in Milan's history, from its commissioned origins to its eventual covering.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Naviglio Sforzesco
Naviglio Sforzesco: What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Look for the Signs
Naviglio Sforzesco is not well-signposted; keep an eye out for it on maps or by noticing the canal's presence. :world_map:
Combine with Nearby Sites
Explore the Covered Market or Rocca Vecchia nearby to make the most of your visit. 🚶
Appreciate its History
Understand that much of the canal is now underground; focus on its historical significance. 📚
Tips
from all over the internet
Look for the Signs
Naviglio Sforzesco is not well-signposted; keep an eye out for it on maps or by noticing the canal's presence. :world_map:
Combine with Nearby Sites
Explore the Covered Market or Rocca Vecchia nearby to make the most of your visit. 🚶
Appreciate its History
Understand that much of the canal is now underground; focus on its historical significance. 📚
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Naviglio Sforzesco is a historical canal, largely covered over time, with visible sections offering a glimpse into Milan's past. While it's not a major tourist attraction and can appear neglected, it holds interest for those keen on urban history and engineering. Its significance lies in its historical context rather than its current aesthetic appeal.
"Here is beautiful house 🏡 and river"
Din Summers
"It is a part of the ancient canal, commissioned by the Sforza family, which flows outdoors, in the stretch between the Covered Market and the entrance to the Rocca Vecchia.
It also flows outdoors in other areas of the city and even had a sort of port, near where the Central Post Office is now located.
For the most part, however, it flows underground because it was covered to facilitate (questionably...) urban traffic in the 1960s, when the city was undergoing a period of rapid industrial expansion."
channel max
"It currently appears abandoned. Little, dirty water and lots of waste. Construction in progress. It is not signposted, hidden by houses. You'll get there if you notice it on Google Map"
Giuliano Ferri (Old_Julian)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Naviglio Sforzesco is not prominently signposted and much of it flows underground. The visible sections are often found between the Covered Market and the entrance to Rocca Vecchia. Using Google Maps to locate these specific points is recommended.
While the canal itself is a historical feature, the surrounding areas are accessible by Milan's public transport. Check local transport maps for routes to the Covered Market or Rocca Vecchia for the best access.
Since the canal is partially covered, navigation is best done by walking and observing the visible parts. It's more about discovery than following a defined path.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Naviglio Sforzesco is an outdoor historical feature and does not require an entrance ticket. It's a part of the city's landscape.
As an outdoor historical element, Naviglio Sforzesco is accessible at all times. However, the surrounding areas like the Covered Market may have specific operating hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can see visible stretches of the ancient canal commissioned by the Sforza family, a reminder of Milan's past. Much of it flows underground, so the visible parts are a historical curiosity.
While not a typical picturesque spot, Naviglio Sforzesco can offer unique photographic opportunities for those interested in urban history and industrial archaeology. Capture the contrast between the old canal and modern city.
Reviews suggest that the visible parts can appear abandoned, with some water and waste. Construction may also be in progress in certain areas.
Naviglio Sforzesco is more of a historical point of interest than a family attraction. Children might find the concept of an underground river interesting, but the visible sections are not particularly engaging for younger visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Naviglio Sforzesco is located in an area with dining options. Nearby areas, particularly the more famous Naviglio Grande, offer numerous restaurants and bars. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit