Barre Historical Society Museum | Barre

Bosco Verticale is a pair of residential skyscrapers located in the Porta Nuova district of Milan, Italy. These towers are distinguished by their integration of a significant number of trees and plants on their facades.

Visual Characteristics

The Bosco Verticale consists of two towers, one reaching approximately 111 meters and the other 76 meters in height. The facades are characterized by projecting balconies designed to support a diverse array of plant life, including over 900 trees, 5,000 shrubs, and 15,000 perennial plants and climbers. The foliage creates a dynamic, ever-changing green exterior that varies with the seasons.

Location & Access Logistics

The towers are situated in the Porta Nuova district, approximately 2 kilometers north of Milan's city center. Access is via Via Gaetano de Castillia and Viale della Liberazione. The nearest Metro station is Garibaldi FS (M2, M5 lines), located about 500 meters to the west. Tram lines 10 and 33 also serve the immediate vicinity. Limited public parking is available in the surrounding area, with paid parking garages also present.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Designed by architect Stefano Boeri and completed in 2014, the Bosco Verticale was conceived as a model for urban reforestation and a means to increase biodiversity within a dense city environment. The project aims to mitigate urban pollution, reduce heat island effects, and provide habitat for birds and insects.

Key Highlights & Activities

Observation of the architectural integration of vegetation is the primary activity. While direct access to the residential units is restricted, the surrounding public spaces offer views of the towers' facades. The project serves as a case study for sustainable urban development.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The towers contain residential apartments and office spaces. Amenities within the complex are private to residents and tenants. Public restrooms are available in nearby commercial areas and the Garibaldi FS station. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong throughout the Porta Nuova district. Food vendors and restaurants are located within the surrounding commercial developments.

Best Time to Visit

The visual impact of the Bosco Verticale is most pronounced during spring and summer when the foliage is at its fullest. Autumn offers a display of changing leaf colors. The best time of day for viewing is during daylight hours, with morning light providing a clear perspective on the western facades and afternoon light on the eastern facades.

Facts & Legends

The irrigation system for the plants is partially supplied by filtered greywater from the building's domestic use, reducing reliance on potable water. The project's design accounts for the wind loads and structural requirements necessary to support the weight and movement of mature trees on elevated balconies.

Nearby Landmarks

• Piazza Gae Aulenti (0.2km Southwest)
• Biblioteca degli Alberi (Tree Library) Park (0.3km North)
• Unicredit Tower (0.4km Southwest)
• Bosco Verticale - South Tower (0.1km Southeast)
• Porta Garibaldi Station (0.5km West)