Tucked away in Milan’s Porta Venezia district, the 770 House at Via Carlo Poerio 35 is a surprising sight among the city’s classic Italian facades. With its red brick walls, gothic windows, and peaked roof, it looks like it was plucked straight from Brooklyn.
This building is a replica of the famous 770 Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn, New York, the headquarters of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement and the former home of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, a beloved leader. Over the years, this house became a symbol of inspiration for the Chabad community, and so they built replicas all around the world—in cities from Jerusalem to Buenos Aires. Milan’s 770 House is special, though, as it’s the only one in Europe, and it serves as a cultural hub for Milan’s Lubavitch-Chabad community
The 770 House was established in the 1960s by Rabbi Gershon Mendel Garelik and his wife Bassie, who wanted to bring a piece of Brooklyn’s spirit to Milan. Today, it’s a centre for worship, cultural events, and community gatherings. Known locally as "La Casa Olandese" (The Dutch House) for its Flemish Renaissance style, it’s a unique sight in Milan, drawing curious visitors who might think they’ve stumbled upon a little bit of New York in Italy.
While the house isn’t open for public tours, its striking facade makes it worth a stop. So, if you’re ever near Via Carlo Poerio, take a detour and check out this quirky, New York-inspired landmark—a true hidden gem blending Milanese and Brooklynite charm in one surprising spot.
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