In an effort to ease his wife's sorrow over the loss of their son, Milanese aristocrat Andrea Maffei began inviting renowned intellectuals to their home in 1834, giving birth to the famous "Maffei Salon." Before long, their house became a gathering place for some of the era's most celebrated artists and writers, including Liszt, Hayez, Verdi, Manzoni, and Balzac. Over time, the salon evolved into a hub for political discussions centered on the future of a united Italy, hosting figures such as Cattaneo, D’Azeglio, and Zanardelli.  

However, the true protagonist of the salon was its hostess, Clara Maffei. Described by her guests as a cultured woman of great sensitivity and intellectual refinement, she was a staunch supporter of the Italian cause, firmly believing in the role of intellectuals in fostering national consciousness. Initially aligned with Mazzini’s radical ideals, both she and her salon gradually shifted towards Cavour’s vision, recognizing the House of Savoy as the only viable path to Italian unification.  

In 1848, the Maffei Salon played a key role in shaping the idea of an anti-Austrian uprising. Following the brutal repression of Milan’s Five Days by Marshal Radetzky, Clara Maffei actively helped numerous patriots, wanted by the Austrian police, escape to Piedmont and Switzerland, including Carlo Tenca, a future deputy of unified Italy, to whom she became romantically attached after separating from her husband.  

Throughout the 1850s, the salon remained a crucial meeting point for intellectuals and patriots. After the victory at the Battle of Magenta, the Italian tricolor was proudly displayed at the Maffei residence, and the Marseillaise was played in tribute to the French allies. Even Napoleon III himself sent Clara Maffei an autographed photograph as a token of gratitude for her support of the anti-Austrian cause.  

The following year, she dedicated herself to raising funds for Garibaldi’s campaign in Sicily. However, despite her unwavering commitment to Italian unification, Clara ultimately grew disillusioned with the new nation, particularly due to the incompetence of its political class and the limited role afforded to women in public life.