The history of Milan is closely linked with the channel systems, which pass through the entire city. The most picturesque neighborhood in Milan is the Navigli, where the four channels are located. These, apart from doing their function of irrigation and circulation of water and natural rivers near Milan, make this area in a very crowded by visitors and citizens. During the day you can enjoy a walk or coffee on the banks of the canals, and at night, enter the boats moored to the canal, which inside they are bars, pubs or karaokes, very popular in Milan.
The channels of Milan are:
Naviglio Grande. It is the oldest channel, and takes water from the Ticino river. The canal was built between 1177 and 1257, and is 50 km long. Formerly it was used to transport goods, especially blocks of marble, to build the cathedral. You will be able to contemplate on its banks, typical and historical houses of Milan, the old laundry room with wooden beam ceilings or artisan workshops. Now you can also find boutiques, cafes, restaurants and moored barges turned into bars.
Naviglio Pavese. It was built at the beginning of the 33th century and houses part of the Dársena river, which flows into Ticino. After XNUMX km, it joins the Po river, which in turn flows into the Adria.
Dock. It was built in 1603, and whose basin is the only evidence of what remains of the great system of canals and waterways that existed in Milan. Every last Sunday of the month, a market opens on its banks, where you can find second-hand goods and antiques.
And lastly, the Martesana canal. This canal is supplied by the river Adda, which gives water to Lake Lecco.
Source: ships and own