The walking path around Piazza Castello has been dedicated to Umberto Eco, celebrated writer and philosopher, commemorating his love for strolling as a source of inspiration, alongside his passion for technology and shopping for gadgets.
In the days leading up to the Milan Olympics, Carlotta Eco, daughter of the late Umberto Eco, reminisced about her father's unique approach to 'sport,' which primarily involved brisk walking. Eco would explore remote locations, drawing inspiration for his literary works. He spent considerable time in the church of San Bernardino alle Ossa and would stroll through book stalls, searching for rare finds among the chaotic ambiance of Piazza Mirabello and Jamaica in Brera.
Carlotta shared with humor that her father's love for walking had less noble motivations too, which included his compulsive shopping for the latest technology products. She mentioned how Eco had amassed a collection of digital agendas and cutting-edge laptops over the years, reflecting his interest in both literature and the evolving tech landscape.
Recently, as a tribute to his legacy, the walking path surrounding Piazza Castello was named after Umberto Eco. Milan’s Mayor Beppe Sala, along with Carlotta and Eco's widow, Renate Ramge-Eco, unveiled a plaque near his home-library, which now serves as the headquarters of the foundation established in his honor. This gesture not only honors Eco’s contributions to literature but also his vibrant connection to the city of Milan.
