The story behind a magical place
Did you know that Milan hides a real oasis just a few steps from Porta Romana? The
Bagni Misteriosi (“Mysterious Baths”) were created in 1939 as the “Piscina G. Caimi”, designed by engineer Luigi Lorenzo Secchi.
Originally conceived as a modern outdoor swimming complex with gardens, a gym, and a library, it quickly became a beloved summer destination.
A new life for a historical pool
After years of abandonment, the area was restored in 2013 by the Pier Lombardo Foundation. Today, the Bagni Misteriosi offer much more than just swimming:
- Two pools (a large one for swimming, and a smaller one for relaxing)
- Green areas and solarium during the summer
- Ice skating rink in winter
- Evening events, live music, and open-air theater
Why “Mysterious Baths”?
The name is inspired by an artwork by Giorgio de Chirico, evoking timeless scenes with statues and swimmers. Just like in his paintings, the Bagni Misteriosi invite visitors to pause, reflect, and enjoy the beauty of silence and sunlight—right in the heart of Milan.
🍹 The Cocktail of Summer 2025: Basil Fizz
After swimming or sunbathing, you’ll want something cool and refreshing. The Basil Fizz is one of the most popular drinks this year in Milan’s trendiest spots. It’s aromatic, light, and super easy to make!
✨ Ingredients:
- 4 cl gin
- 1 cl lemon juice
- 2 cl sugar syrup (1:1 water and sugar)
- A few fresh basil leaves
- Soda water
- (Optional: 1 egg white for a frothy top)
🧑🍳 Instructions:
- Muddle the basil with the syrup in a shaker.
- Add lemon juice, gin, and egg white (if used).
- Shake well — dry shake and then wet shake if using egg white.
- Pour into a glass with ice and top with soda.
- Garnish with a fresh basil leaf. Cheers!
📝 Practice your Italian!
Ready to test your Italian vocabulary from today’s article? Try this interactive game below:
Tip: Repeat the game and challenge a classmate to see who scores higher!
🇮🇹 Want to learn more Italian while enjoying Milan?
At Il Centro – Italian Language School in Milan, we offer Italian courses for all levels in the heart of the city. Learn the language, meet new people, and discover places like the Bagni Misteriosi… all while having fun! 🌞
👉 Discover our August Special Offer and start your language journey with us!
(Credit photo: official website Bagni Misteriosi)