Legnano

Legnano is a commune in the Metropolitan City of Milan that spreads along the Olona River about 20 kilometers northwest of Milan. The town connects residential neighborhoods with small industrial zones and riverside parks.

In 1176 the Lombard League defeated Emperor Frederick Barbarossa at Legnano, securing independence for northern Italian cities. The memory of that fight continues to shape how the town sees itself today.

The name comes from the Latin Leonianum, recalling a Roman estate that once stood here. Today several streets and squares carry references to the 1176 battle, which remain visible throughout the town.

The railway station offers regular connections to Milan and other towns in the region, while bus lines link neighborhoods within the town. Paths along the river work well for walking and are easy to reach during the day.

The town appears beside Rome as one of only two place names in the Italian national anthem. That mention refers directly to the medieval battle that happened here.

Location: Metropolitan City of Milan

Capital city: Legnano

Elevation above the sea: 199 m

Shares border with: Canegrate, San Giorgio su Legnano, Cerro Maggiore, San Vittore Olona, Villa Cortese, Busto Arsizio, Castellanza, Rescaldina, Dairago

Website: http://comune.legnano.mi.it

GPS coordinates: 45.59581,8.90598

Latest update: December 15, 2025 06:20