Piccoli Razionalisti: Childhood Meets Architecture

“When architecture and education meet, they can become powerful tools to spark curiosity, build shared memory, and create a deep connection with the local community.” With these words, Lucia Moretti, speaking on behalf of Wonderlake Como, captures the essence of Piccoli Razionalisti, a project developed by the non-profit cultural association in collaboration with the Accademia dei Piccoli Artisti and supported by Como 1907.

The idea was born from the desire to intertwine culture, history, and creativity to help children discover the value of Como’s rationalist architectural heritage—unique in Italy and the world. It’s a legacy often overlooked but extraordinary precisely because it is such a vital part of the city’s identity.

Launched in May of last year, the project has already involved around 1,400 primary school children across the local area, with the goal of reaching over 1,800 in the coming years. It’s designed as a true journey of growth: each school year corresponds to a dedicated itinerary, allowing students to build their experience over the five years of primary school.

The journey begins with the youngest children at the Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium, one of the most scenic sports venues in Italy, overlooking the lake, and serving as their first encounter with rationalist architecture. As they grow, students continue their exploration, visiting iconic sites year by year: Canottieri Lario and Aeroclub for second graders, Como’s Pinacoteca for the third, the striking Casa Cattaneo in Cernobbio for the fourth, and finally Casa del Fascio for the fifth-grade students.

At each stop, the children are introduced to local history through stories adapted to their age and, most importantly, through creative workshops designed to turn culture into a hands-on experience. Each visit concludes with the creation of a postcard to send home—a simple yet meaningful gesture, teaching children the importance of memory, shared storytelling, and the anticipation of receiving something personal in the mail.

Equally essential is the collaboration with Lara and Martina, founders of the Accademia dei Piccoli Artisti, who specialize in creative workshops using recycled materials. This way, the children become active participants, collecting images, symbols, and emotions and transforming them into something unique to share with their families — deepening the bond between experience and memory.

“Piccoli Razionalisti is a journey that starts from the legacy history has left us and leads to the awareness of how important it is to know, appreciate, and bring to life the richness of these places today.”

Como 1907 chose to support the project precisely for its strong message of synergy between territory, culture, and sport: a virtuous alliance aimed at helping the next generation grow up with a new perspective on the city they call home.