Historic Palestra Visconti in Milan to become arts hub

The building at Via Giovanni Bellezza 16-16/A in Milan, opened in 1910 as a mutual aid society, has served as a Casa del Popolo, ANPI and Arci headquarters, and hosted cultural events. Now, the Circolo Arci Bellezza is crowdfunding €30,000 via Produzioni dal Basso to renovate its basement, the Palestra Visconti—a former boxing gym that was a symbol of youth redemption in the 1950s, produced champions, and served as a set for Luchino Visconti's film Rocco and His Brothers. The space will become a multidisciplinary arts center for young talents, featuring performances, live music, photography workshops, cinema screenings, street art, multimedia installations, theater, cabaret, slam poetry, and courses in writing, painting, and visual arts. Donations range from €10 to €1,000, with rewards including pins, T-shirts, gadgets, 2025/2026 season events, tango workshops, dinners, name engravings on a golden star, show subscriptions, and secret events for up to 20 people. The campaign aims to involve the entire community.