Lavatoio Pubblico (Public Wash House), Bergamo

The Public Wash House located on San Lupo Street in the Upper Town of Bergamo, is a remarkable architectural gem. Built in 1881, it showcases an elegant design and features a long tank made of white marble, divided into different sections. The structure is covered by a graceful roof crafted from cast iron and metal slabs, adding to its aesthetic appeal.

From a functional standpoint, the Wash House is ingeniously designed. It incorporates a sophisticated water supply system, an overflow drain system, and a mechanism for discharging dirty water after washing. Additionally, it includes a gutter to collect water sprays generated during the washing process. These thoughtful features make the washhouse highly effective and efficient in its purpose.

During the time of its construction, Bergamo faced significant challenges in terms of hygiene. In 1884, a devastating cholera epidemic struck the city, and physicians attributed the spread of diseases such as typhus fever to the poor quality of water in the Upper Town. In response to these health concerns, the Bergamo Administration took decisive action and decided to construct multiple public washhouses. In addition to the one on San Lupo Street, similar washhouses were built on Boccola Street and in Borgo Canale.

The San Lupo Street Wash House remained operational until the 1950s, serving as a vital community resource for many years. Today, it stands as a precious testament to the past and is meticulously preserved by the authorities.