Once Upon a Time There Was “Number One”, Milan’s First Disco

At number 31 of Via dell’Annunciata, lovers of nightlife in Milan, glimmering in the spectacular lighting by Fornasetti, said a resounding farewell to slow dancing. Where the road turns to meet a tall building with a rather irregular facade, in 1968, “Number One” was born. Opening Milan’s and Italy’s first disco was Gigi Rizzi, the playboy best known for his love story with Brigitte Bardot who, along with his friend Beppe Piroddi, wanted to bring a bit of the Costa Azzurra to Milan. It’s easy to imagine what sort of atmosphere prevailed in the small but dazzling space, with its DJ booth, bandstand, bar and seating booths. Soon, the dance-floor - illuminated from underneath - became a catwalk to the most stunning international models, while the velvet tigre-skin patterned sofas gathered Milan’s best and brightest youth. This exclusive club hosted grand gala events, overflowing with mini-skirts, beautiful women and luxury cars parked outside. A full orchestra would play live until it soon gave way to the trend of live DJs.