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 Underneath the arches! |
Piazza Cavour Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
This gate, part of the 12th-century walls of the city, were reinforced and embellished by Azzone Visconti (1330-39), and consists of two arches flanked by towers. In the 15th century it was partially demolished and incorporated into other buildings, and then restored in 1861. It was further restored in 1931 with architectural changes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paul Sperneac |
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Jesuit college |
11 Corso Venezia Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 78 3941 http://www.seminario.milano.it |
Commissioned by Carlo Borromeo in 1564, construction of the Seminary was begun by Seregni and Pellegrini in the 16th century, and was finished by Aurelio Trezzi and Fabio Mangone, under the direction of Cardinal Federico Borromeo in the early years of the 17th century. The austere, disciplined style, based on rigorously classical canons, represents the architectural expression of the rulings of the Council of Trent. The façade, of which just the highly theatrical portal remains, was built to a design by Francesco Maria Richini in 1635. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 See the stars!!!! |
28 Via Brera Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 72 3201 http://www.mi.astro.it/ |
This observatory is located in an important palace which was built by Francesco Maria Richini from a design by Martino Bassi in 1615. Maria Teresa d'Austria enlarged the building in the seventeenth century. The last restoration took six years and was completed in 1991. Guided visits and conferences are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Jesuit College |
28 Via Brera Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficioturisfico) |
Originally the seat of the Jesuit College, its construction was initiated in 1571 by Martino Bassi and continued by Francesco Maria Richini in 1615. Successive extensions of the building maintained the style of Richini's design. The building is centered on a monumental courtyard consisting of a double order, with a double staircase opposite the entrance. The façade, in pure Lombard Baroque style, has a portal which was designed by Piermarini in the 18th century. Today it houses the Brera art gallery, the Braidense national library, the Fine Arts Academy and the astronomical observatory. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 20th century masterpiece |
12 Via Moscova Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
This was designed in 1919-1923 by the Studio Barelli-Colonnese, where the young Muzio also worked. The strange name is due to the perplexed reactions that the building aroused after completion. In fact, it is completely different from the architecture of its day, in that it adopts a quiet, abstract, geometric form of decoration, in which architectural orders and decor are treated as two-dimensional graphic elements. Despite the criticism at the time, today it is considered a masterpiece of Italian early 20th-century architecture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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19th Century house |
3 Via Degli Omenoni Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turisfico) |
Built by the sculptor, Leone Leoni between 1562 and 1566 as his Milan residence, this building is famous above all for it's façade, which has eight telamons sculpted in solid stone. The rest of the decoration is highly ornamental and reflects the cultured style of its architect. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Luca Montemurri |
 Photo: txkun  |
 Photo: Fabio_C.73 |
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Money, money, money! |
8 Via Monte di Pietà Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turisfico) |
Popularly known as the 'Ca' de Sass' (house of stones) due to its rusticated stone facade, it was designed by G. Balzaretto in 1868-1872 as the head office for the Cassa di Risparmio bank. Based on the Florentine Renaissance conception of the palazzo, or palace, the building is meant to be an allusion to the banking activities conducted by members of this Medici-controlled city. Extending right down the block, the building consists of a central body and two wings with terraces. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Former castle dating from the 14th century |
Castello Sforzesco Milan, Milan 20100 Italy +39 2 8846 3700 http://www.milanocastello.it/i... |
Built in 1368 by Gian Galeazzo Visconti to defend the city from attack, the castle was enlarged by military architect Magatti under the instruction of Visconti's successor Gian Galeazzo. Destroyed in 1447, it was rebuilt between 1450 and 1500 and enlarged under Francesco Sforza's rule. In 1500, once Sforza's rule was over, the building regained its military function and, after successive transformations, eventually fell into ruin. Rebuilt in the late 1900s, from 1893 onwards the castle gradually became home to various cultural institutions and art collections and remains so today. Guided tours are available. Admission: Free, Admission to the Museum: EUR 3. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Federico |
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Church of St. Babila |
1 Corso Monforte Milan, Milan 20122 Italy +39 2 7600 2877 |
This was a pagan temple in the 2nd century which was transformed into a church by the holy bishop of Antioch, St. Babila. The church was rebuilt between 1096 and 1097. There are three naves inside, with a covered central nave and four spans. The nave finishes with three semicircular apses, the middle of which ressembles the one in the Sant'Ambrogio church. It was built in the Visconti era and in the Baroque period with the addition of a frontal span which changed the outward appearance. The restoration of the facade and the rebuilding of the belltower in a New-Romantic style was planned by the architect Bianchi who renovated the church in 1906. Alessandro Manzoni was baptised in this church on the 8th March 1785. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gabriele |
 Photo: Luca |
 Photo: Minh Nguyen |
 Photo: Franco Wendler |
 Photo: Marco Soldo |
 Photo: Luca Aprea |
 Photo: taylie |
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Art collection in the Castello Sforzesco |
Castello Sforzesco Milan 20121 Italy +39 028693071 |
In the Castello Sforzesco, the Collections are located in the two passageways that extend from the Duke's Court to the Rocchetta. The Applied Art Collection includes twenty Italian and foreign collections and is the most complete and important collection of its kind in Italy. Formed in late nineteenth century as a catalogue of historical models for various factories, it subsequently was enriched with pieces of great importance such as "Arazzi Trivulzio" acquired in 1935, and with the addition of approximately 650 musical instruments donated by Natale Gallini in 1958. Guided tours, museum publications, library, photographic archives. The grandiose ballroom, once, home to the Duke's parties and games of "pallacorda"; the "Arazzi dei mesi" (tapestry of the months) designed by Bartolomeo Suardi known as il Bramantino and frames prepared by Bernardino da Milano are all of special interest. The prestigious 17th century "liuteria" (lutes) made by artists such as Amati, Guarneri and Stradivari. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ancient art in the Castello Sforzesco |
Castello Sforzesco Castello Sforzesco Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 86 1125 |
In the Castello Sforzesco, this museum displays Ancient Art, in the Duke's Court, housing ancient Christian, Longobardi, Roman, and Gothic relics, including the sepulchre of Bernabò Visconti. Of interest are the sculpture sections with works by Bonino Da Campione, Giovanni Pisano, Agostino di Duccio, Mantegazza, Michelozzo, Bambaia and Leone Leoni. In the picture gallery there are approximately two hundred paintings among which: "Madonna with child" and the "Poet Laureat" by G. Bellini. Of special interest is the sculpture "Pietà Rondanini" by Michelangelo. A curiosity: uncovered on the first floor of the Falconiera Tower, the first room (today "sala Carlo Tosi") was the old matrimonial room in the Duke's apartment. Unfortunately, nothing remains of the original furnishings. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Historical Museum of the City |
6 Via Sant'Andre Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 8846 3280 |
The Museum is housed in the eighteenth century noble palace of the Morando Attendolo Bolognini family. The Palace, in baroque style, was inhabited by the Contessa until 1945 when, upon her death, she donated it to the City. The Museum is divided into the Picture Gallery with works on the history of the City, and into the apartment of Attendolo Bolognini. It depicts the Milanese way of life over the last three centuries through paintings, antiques, and furnishings. Special Interest: in the Picture Gallery, the oils on canvas by Angelo Inganni 'La piazza del Duomo e l'angolo del coperto Figini'; 'La corsia dei Servi' by Giuseppe Canella; 'il ponte di Porta Ticinese' by Pompeo Calvi. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The building of Milan's famous newspaper |
28 Via Solferino Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turisfico) |
The building that now houses the newspaper 'Corriere della Sera' founded in 1876, was designed in 1903-04 by Luca Beltrami, an art historian, architect and one of the founders of the newspaper which he edited for a while. Subsequently heightened by Luigi Repossi and expanded in 1960-65 by Alberto Rosselli with the rotary press building in the direction of San Marco, the building replaced its original Eclectic style with a more sober and essential look. Characterised by the use of innovative construction techniques such as reinforced concrete, it is a simple rectangle in shape with a plastered brick front, and wide low arches surrounded by classical decorations. The elegant motifs with pilasters, volutes, branches and wreaths of laurel leaves with the newspaper's monogram in the centre are all elements one of the first and most successful pieces of architecture for the services' sector in Milan. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Neo-Romanesque 19th c. building |
8 Viale Monte Grappa Milan, Milan 20124 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turisfico) |
After three temporary sites were set up offering meals at a low price, the Cucine Economiche (Cheap Meals) building was constructed in 1886 near the old Gabelle bridge over the Naviglio della Martesana. The building was designed by Luigi Broggi and is an example of Milanese Neo-Romanesque. The purpose of the building was reflected in its strict rationality and pure volumetry. Split on two floors (the kitchens and dining room on the ground floor and the offices upstairs), it is characterized by elegant decorative elements: the low arched doorways and windows, the alternating bands of ceramic and plaster, the simple motifs in staggered brick are an effective and remarkable example of architecture in a charitable building. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 A result of the revival of the monk Martin Luther. |
10 Via Pinamonte da Vimercate Milan 20121 Italy +39 026599603 |
Christian Baptist churches are part of the large evangelical family born from the revival by the monk Martin Luther who wanted to reform the church in 1500 recalling the fundamental principals of the gospel. The Christian Evangelical Baptist church affirms the supremacy of individual faith and the authority of the gospel in every religious framework. The first Baptist missionaries to take part in the evangelisation of Italy in 1863 were Edward Clarke and James Wall. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Multi-purpose exhibition space |
3 Via Gian Domenico Romagnosi Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 (0)2 87 4175 / +39 (0)2 869 3911 http://www.fondazionefeltrinel... |
On the opposite side of Via Manzoni, Via Romagnosi, which was opened after the demolition of the church of Santa Maria del Giardino, is home to the Feltrinelli Foundation. Founded in 1973, the institute has a library with large volumes, ancient books and periodicals. Its archives specialise mostly in the economic, political and social aspects of the Italian workers movement and social dissent from the eighteenth century until present times. They organise seminars and meetings with political and historic debates. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Everything you wanted to know about cinema... |
2/B Via Daniele Manin Pallazzo Dugnani Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 655 4977 |
In addition to the historical and technical relics of the cinema, the museum documents the influences and themes with costumes and art. There are documents and film equipment from the evolution of cinematography machines of the 1700 and 1800s. The posters from Italian, French and American cinema from 1905 to 1930 with actors such as Dudovich and Mucha are worth having a look at. Don't miss the film and projection machine invented by the Lumière brothers dating from 1895. There is a library with museum publications, and guided tours are available. Film shows on the history of cinema are included in the visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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15th century building |
10 Corso Venezia Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (l'ufficio turistico) |
A rare example of 15th-century Lombard architecture commissioned by a private citizen, this building was created by enlarging a 14th-century construction, as can be seen from the irregularity of the plan. The architecture of the building and courtyard is so sophisticated and cultured that it has been suggested that the designer was Bramante himself. The building was restored in 1961. Though the 1961 restoration slightly obscured the facade, it enhanced the magnificent 15th-century portal, the style of which is now often imitated in the architecture of city buildings and palaces. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Home of the famous poet |
1 Via Morone Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 8646 0403 http://www.casadelmanzoni.mi.it |
Next door to the imposing Palazzo Belgiojoso, looking out onto Piazza Belgiojoso (with an entrance in Via Morone), is the house that Alessandro Manzoni lived in from 1814 until he died in 1873. The building itself, which is a block with a central courtyard and side porticos is one of the characteristic examples of architecture from the renaissance. The most defining element of the building is the facade facing the piazza which has graffito plasterwork underlined by a rich decoration in terracotta executed in 1864 by Andrea Boni in traditional Lombardian renaissance style. Restored between 1962 and 1965, the building has housed the Centro Studi Manzoniani, and the Societa Storica Lombarda. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pasquale Speranza |
 Photo: Quietude |
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Internationally renowned opera house |
Piazza della Scala Milan 20121 Italy +39 0288791 http://www.teatroallascala.org/ |
Conceived in 1776 as a fitting replacement for the Teatro Ducale (sadly destroyed by fire), the famous La Scala theatre has since become one of opera's legendary venues. Home to the prestigious La Scala di Milano opera company, it remains one of the city's liveliest cultural venues. Check the web site for maps and directions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Stillman |
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Collection of art by Minguzzi |
11 Via Palermo Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 3656 5440 http://www.lucianominguzzi.it/ |
The Museum is located in a four storey 17th-century building. Completely renovated, it houses the works of Minguzzi on the lower floor, in the area which was once used to conserve ice. The Museum hosts sculptures, models, and works by the Bolognese Artist from the 1930s to 1997. One finds works dedicated to the themes of civilization and to the men of the "Lager" (concentration camp prisoners). A special feature are the wood panels which reproduce the door of Good and Evil from Saint Peter's Cathedral at Rome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Chic shopping district |
Via Montenapoleone Milan, Milan Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) http://www.viamontenapoleone.org/ |
Frequented by the world's jet set and well-to-do Milanese, Milan's fashionable shopping district is famed for its wealth of luxury boutiques. Top names in haute couture and ready-to-wear, from Versace and Dolce & Gabbana to Louis Vuitton and Valentino, they all have shops here. Some of the world's finest jewelers, including Cartier, Bulgari, Pomellato and Tiffany's have stores here too; even if you're not buying, the stunning window displays are always worth a look. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Saad AlMunifi |
 Photo: Peter Horstmann |
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 Photo: Marc Chang Sing Pang |
 Photo: Adrienne |
 Photo: Lorenzo Domingo Anto |
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Garibaldi, Cavour & More |
Via Borgonuovo 23 Milan 20121 Italy +39 02 8846 4177 http://www.museodelrisorgiment... |
Housed in the historic Palazzo Moriggia built in the 18th Century, this palazzo was once the seat of the Office of Foreign Affairs and then Office of War until it passed into the hands of the city of Milan in 1900. The museum contains weapons, paintings, photographs, and a vast collection of documents pertaining to the history of the unification of Italy, from the Napoleonic period to 1870. There's a new multimedia and interactive learning facility as well as constantly changing exhibits. Admission: EUR 2. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Discover the History of Milan |
Via Sant'Andrea 6 Milan 20121 Italy +39 02 8846 5933 http://www.museodimilano.mi.it/ |
This small museum, located on the first floor of the Palazzo Morando, is devoted to the public and private lives of Milan's citizens through a lovely collection of furniture, paintings and artifacts from the 17th to 19th Centuries. About 20 rooms filled with artworks and temporary exhibits for those interested in the history of the city. Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Antique musical instruments |
Castello Sforzesco Milan 20121 Italy +39 02874546 http://www.galleriaborghese.it... |
The Museum of Musical Instruments, in the Castello Sforzesco, conserves approximately 650 pieces and a vast exotic grouping from outside of Europe. The Museum is concerned with the production of musical instruments from 1500 to 1800. The first section is dedicated to cord instruments, even though it includes antique 700s "spinettes" as well. Then there are the bow instruments with the standing viola and the "viole d'amore" (viola of love) (so named for the double number of cords that vibrate pleasantly), guitars, mandarins, prestigious 600s lutes from Cremona. Then there is a vast selection of wind instruments and the last section dedicated to popular music with examples of African and Asian instruments. Throughout the Museum are keyboard instruments that do not yet have a definitive location. Of special interest are the lutes represented by pieces from Amati, Guarneri, and Stradivari and small pocket-sized violins called "pochettes", among which an example from the 500s. Admission: EUR 3 per person, Friday after 2p Free Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Early 20th century residence |
28 Via Legnano Milan, Milan 20121 Italy |
Designed by Gaetano Moretti in 1903, this is an interesting example of how the International Style reached Milan in the early years of the 20th century. Built in a sober, simple style, the house consists of a ground floor in rusticated ashlar, and three other floors featuring geometric decorations in stone and graffito-work. There is a clear influence of Otto Wagner's Viennese school. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Homes for the Bagatti brothers |
10 Via Santo Spirito Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
Located in downtown Milan, the Bagatti Valsecchi Museum expresses the taste and life style of a wealthy, cultured, aristocratic Milanese family at the end of the 19th century, and is one of Europe's most important historic house museums. Here, the precious permanent collections of 15th-16th century Italian art and decorative arts, assembled by the Bagatti Valsecchi brothers during the second half of the 19th century, are found in their original positions. Because of this, the museum not only offers Italian Renaissance art, but also presents an authentic "magic window" onto Milan's recent aristocratic past fascinating to many kinds of visitors. Admission: EUR 6, EUR 3 on Wednesday. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Famous 18th Century building |
2 Piazza Belgioioso Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
Designed in 1772 by Piermarini for Prince Alberico XII Barbiano di Belgiojoso as a new residence. The building has a main courtyard and two secondary courtyards: the façade is particularly interesting, with a giant order of half columns and pilaster strips above a rusticated ashlar ground floor, and terminating in a large cornice and gable. The entrance is heightened by the projecting central volume. The coherence of the design extends to the interior decoration and furnishings, also designed by Piermarini. Feature of interest: On the first floor there is a chapel with lobate central plan, and a powder-room, also central-plan. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Late neo classical façade |
39-41 Via Alessandro Manzoni Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
This building, the result of various stages of construction, was completed in the 19th century. The late Neoclassical façade was designed by Gerolamo Arganini (1820-1825) for Marquis Febo d'Adda, and it was later extended during the course of the 19th century. The front façade, with wide, horizontal lines, presents a rusticated ashlar strip alternating with regularly-positioned windows, while those of the first floor have alternately triangular and curving pediments. The plan is organized around three interior courtyards. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Old noble townhouse |
2 Via Daniele Manin Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 655 4977 |
The patrician townhouse, Casati Dugnani, is one of the few Milanese residences built outside the medieval walls. It was built at the end of the 17th century by the Meda family, and altered in the 18th century when it passed first to the Casati family, then to the Dugnani. In 1857, the palazzo and its vast grounds (purchased by the city council in 1854) were incorporated in the Public Gardens and became the home of the Natural History Museum, later a secondary school. It was damaged during WW2 but restored and now hosts events and a film museum. Seen from Via Manin, the façade of the palazzo is typically 17th century and rather staid. However, the retired central body of the complex and the wings are more varied and boast elegant porticoes and loggias. Inside in the upper rooms there are stuccoes and frescoes by the Venetian school, an elegant reception room surrounded by a landing, and superb frescoes painted by Tiepolo in 1731 that were commissioned by Count Giuseppe Casati. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Clerici's palace |
5 Via Clerici Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficioturisfico) |
Built in the early 18th century for Giorgio Antonio Clerici, an important figure in the diplomatic corps of the Spanish government, this extension of the previous building can be attributed, at least in part, to Francesco Croce. The characteristic feature of this palazzo is the notable difference between the decoration of the façade, with its asymmetric prospect and that of the interior. Inside, a courtyard with a portico on the entrance side and that opposite leads to another, smaller courtyard. On the right, the three-flight monumental staircase, with vault frescoed by Bortoloni, leads up to the first floor with the famous 'tapestries gallery' frescoed by Gian Battista Tiepolo. It was used as the residence of the Archduke's family from 1773 to 1778. Today the building is the seat of the Superintendency of the Environmental and Architectural Heritage of Lombardy. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Walter Travaini |
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Splendid decor |
13 Via Brera Milan, Milan 20122 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
The earliest documents regarding this building date to the late 16th century: in the early years of the following century, cardinal Agostino Cusani refurbished it to give it greater prestige. Its central plan is developed around a rectangular courtyard with porticoes on two sides and granite columns. The façade facing Via Brera, dating to 1717 and by Giovanni Ruggeri, has two portals and a remarkably decorative architectural structure. Towards the rear, the building was finished by Giuseppe Piermarini in 1790, and it still conserves original interiors and stucco-work. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The Landriani residence |
25 Via Borgonuovo Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
This, originally the residence of the Bossi family, was later acquired by the Landriani. Tommaso Landriani in fact rebuilt the palazzo between 1515 and 1523. Part of the façade and the inner courtyard remain from the original 16th-century architecture. The design and the terra cotta mouldings can be attributed to Cesariano, while the pictorial decoration that once ran along the walls of the inner court has completely disappeared. Feature of interest: The fresco depicting 'Hercules and Atlas', possibly by Bernardino Luini and now conserved at the Castle Museums, once belonged to the paintings in the courtyard, while the decoration of the 'Centenario' hall can be attributed to Cesariano, possibly with assistance from Zenale. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Noble Palace |
2 Piazza della Scala Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
Seat of the Municipal government of Milan, the building was designed in 1558 by architect Galeazzo Alessi for Tommaso Marino. Left incomplete after having been confiscated in lieu of the owner's debts, the construction was modified by successive owners, and was completed only when Luca Beltrami built the façade facing Piazza della Scala in 1888-1892, on the model of Alessi's original façade facing Piazza San Fedele. An example of Mannerism, the building represents a combination of exuberant decoration and architectural motifs with a sophisticated use of classical elements. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Luca Somazzi |
 Photo: Molly Rose |
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Rationalist architecture |
2 Largo Guido Donegani Milan, Milan 20122 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
Commissioned to Gio Ponti between 1935 and 1938 the building soon became a symbol of rationalist Milan architecture between the two wars. In the shape of an H with a private opening onto Via Moscova on one floor is ideal for offices with its internal layout, furnishings and external aspect working together in perfect harmony. Externally, the green marble walls and the standardised iron and aluminium locks annonce the exxpressive clarity and attention to detail that can also be seen on the inside. The complex actually offers avant garde, typological solutions (mobile floors with individual work posts) as well as technological ones (controlled heating and inflateable posts) which Ponti took care of paying great attention to detail. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Genteel residence |
6 Via Sant'Andrea Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7600 6245 |
This 18th century palace was donated to the city in 1945 by the Attendolo Bolognini family - it holds the Museo Civico di Milano (first housed in 1935 in Palazzo Sormani) on the first floor, and the ground floor is home to the Civic Museum of Contemporary History (inaugurated in 1963 with the aid of A. Rossi, M. Baffa, L. Meda and U. Rivolta). The palace was modified at the beginning of the 19th century, and the 18th century façade is partially Baroque. The inside has two wide granite doors, and has conserved a great deal of its original aspect. The wide stairway with stone parapets leads to the noble apartment which is still decorated with period furniture and furnishings. It has frescoed vaults by Giovan Antonio Cucchi, and walls with pictures from both the collection by Attendolo Bolognini, and from the art gallery in the Museum of Milan. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cantoni's masterpiece |
16 Corso Venezia Milan, Milan 20121 Italy |
The building, dating to around 1770, was created by architect Simone Cantoni. The design heightens the monumental character of the central part, with a three-floor façade. Opposite the entrance, a helical staircase leads to the first floor, that has been refurbished and in part restored, with a Neoclassical hall by Traballesi. In 1796 it was used for three months by Napoleon and Josephine during their sojourn in Milan. Today it is in part residential, and in part used by a number of associations. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Arnaldo Pomodoro's disc |
Piazza Filippo Meda Milan, Milan 20121 Italy |
Separated from Piazza Belgioioso by a large park, Piazza Filippo Meda was opened in 1926 after Corso Matteotti was opened (ex-Corso del Littorio) right the way down to Piazza San Babila. The long space in the square is dominated by the large revolving bronze disc created by sculptor Arnaldo Pomodoro. It is 4.5 metres in diameter and rests on a pivot so that it will turn with the wind or when pushed. Thus the slow movements and reflections of the lacerated disc give it an amazing lightness that suggests a heavenly star randomly come to land in the square. In the background stands the curved form of the Piazza Meda Offices' Building designed by Studio BBPR, the 1928 building by P. Magistretti (no.3), the 1929 HQ of the Banca Popolare by G. Greppi, and the 1928 Palazzo Crespi by P. Portaluppi (between Corso Matteotti and Via Verri). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: leonardo crippa |
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Site-specific architecture |
Piazza Filipo Meda Milan, Milan 20123 Italy |
In 1958 after the construction of the Torre Velasca the BBPR group (Banfi, Belgojoso, Peressutti and Rogers)planned an office building between Via Hoepli and Via Catena which look over Piazza Meda. Finished in 1968, with the collaboration of Luigi Caccia Dominioni, who planned the structure facing the church of San Fidele, the building continues the high porticos of Via Hoepli and by way of a large circular structure (from which it gets the name 'panettone', a link is formed with the neighbouring renaissance apse. The clear contrast in scale between the portico and the openings above, and the circular structure, which has reinforced concrete on the inside and metal and glass on the outside is in dialogue with the surrounding architecture, giving rise to the term architectural 'contextualism' which has made the Torre Velasca such a famous and controversial work of architecture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A garden with water and stones |
Piazza San Babila Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (l'ufficio turistico) |
Donated to the city by the Ente Autonomo Fiera Milano in 1997, this fountain was designed by Luigi Caccia Dominioni. It is situated in front of the portico of the Toro Assicurazioni building- a garden of water and stones. The water falls from a central pinnacle into a large quadrangular basin which is surrounded by green 'hills'. Using an intelligent combination of stone (it is almost a living museum of Lombardian stone - Serizzo from Val Masino, pink granite from Baveno and red granite from Val Gerola, to Dubino from Valtellina) and forms, the fountain stands as a symbol and an expression of the resources to be found in the region. Thus the water, of which Milan became so proud, and which is today a forgotten part of the city, has rediscovered a role in an urban context and has become a focus for relaxation in the crowded and chaotic city centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrzej Otrebski |
 Photo: Simone Bruschi |
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The house of Poldi Pezzoli |
12 Via Alessandro Manzoni Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 79 6334 / +39 2 79 4889 http://www.museopoldipezzoli.it/ |
Inaugurated in 1881 by Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli, the museum houses important paintings, archaeological relics, arms, carpets, porcelain, glass, watches, and jewelry. Works by Hayez, Foppa, Boltraffio, Solario, Cranach, Mantegna, Giovanni Bellini, Botticelli, Piero Della Francesca, F. Guardi, Magnasco, Tiepolo, Palma il Vecchio, Frà Galgario, Tura, Cima da Conegliano, Lotto and Pollaiolo are all of special interest. Admission: EUR 8, EUR 5.50 (11-17 years, seniors). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jo Lin |
 Photo: Jo Lin |
 Photo: Fermin Uribetxebarria - mcfer2k |
 Photo: Marymal |
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Archeological Museum |
Castello Sforzesco Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 6208 3931 |
Building work on the castle went on from 1450 to 1550 under the authority of the Sforza family of Milan. In obedience to the will of Franceso Sforza the reconstruction and extension of the old fortress called 'di Porta Giovia' was carried out, erected between the walls of the city and the canals, by what is Rocchetta today. The fortress is a square shape, about 200 metres each side, with four angular towers and a dividing moat. It has been transformed over a number of years with the addition of other, mostly richly decorated, towers to satisfy the demands of the residents, the most important being the Filarete. At the end of the 1440's Ludovico il Moro involved Leonardo and Bramante in the building works. When the Sforzo family lost power in the 1500's the castle was taken over by the military, and after being used for several purposes eventually fell into ruin. In 1893, thanks to the architect Beltrami and ten years of work, the castle was restored and various cultural objects and paintings were gathered here and put on display. It was renovated after the war by the BBPR studio (the architects Banfi, Barbiano Peresutti and Rogers) as part of an initiative to restore public museums. Entrance Fee: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sombre stonework |
24 Via Solferino Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turisfico) |
This design by S.G. Locati, 1889-1890, is rather unusual for residential buildings in Milan, which generally have compact façades facing the street and larger inside courtyards. This design in fact, has two structures of different heights linked by a narrow, one-floor building which has a roofed loggia on top which leads into a garden. The two main buildings are separated for two different uses, one was used as living quarters and the other as a private studio. The sober architecture is in a 16th-century style, while the façades are completely covered in stone. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Franciscan church |
2 Piazza Sant' Angelo Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 2900 3401 |
Built in 1552 commissioned by the order of the Minor Franciscans in place of the fifteent-century building, this church has one main hall, flanked by lateral chapels. The old convent complex is huge and is the seat of fundamental importance for the order, built at the time of the abolitions and completely rebuilt betweenn 1940 and 1945 by the architect Giovanni Muzio. The pictorial decoration of the lateral naves is of great importance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Jesuit churc in the San Fedele square |
Piazza San Fedele Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
Designed by the architect Pellegrino Tibaldi, this is one of the most interesting and important Lombard monuments of the late sixteenth century. Built by the Jesuit order in 1569, the church has a single nave, divided into two spans with columns in a style reminiscent of the halls of roman baths. Despite the unfinished original plan (the presbytery was built later by Richini), the building has a notably coherent form. The external facade is a masterpiece of different architectural styles which are brought to their maximum expressive capacity here. The altars of the side naves are of particular artistic interest. At the back of the church on the right is a small chapel with a part of a fresco from the thirteenth century showing a Madonna with child called 'Madonna delle Ballerine' to which people used to come to place floral tributes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Filippo Aroffo |
 Photo: Lucas Moellers |
 Photo: Salvatore Lo Faro |
 Photo: Walter |
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Originally designed |
116 Corso Garibaldi Giuseppe Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 65 4855 |
This interesting double building, is traditionally linked to the love story between Francesco Sforza and Bianca Maria Visconti. Seat of the Augustinian order, the complex was built from a complicated series of events. A first chapel was dedicated to St. Nicholas of Tolentino and modernised in a gothic style according to the will of Francesco Sforza in 1451 (now right nave) and was accompanied by a second building (left nave) similar to the first chapel. The two buildings were linked in 1484 which has led to an original double church shape. The plan, attributed to Guiniforte Solari, is a typical example of late gothic, lombard style. On the right there are polygonal chapels with a clear Solari influence. The interior has been recently restored. The convent is the most important centre of Augustinian culture in Milan. The library building still stands and is undergoing restoration as it is one of the best examples of this kind of 15th century work. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Majestic Neo-Classical church |
1 Piazza San Carlo Milan, Milan 20122 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (l'ufficio turistico) |
There is an open area towards Piazza San Babila on Corso Vittorio Emanuele, onto which the impressive church of San Carlo al Corso looks. It was designed by the Neo-Classical architect, Carlo Amati, 1839-47. By pulling back the façade from the previous church built on that site (Santa Maria dei Servi), Amati succeeded in creating the open square in front of the church. The high Corinthian portico frames the facade and connects it to the Corso. The round church has a high dome (36.9 meters) and was built during 1843-47 by Felice Pizzagalli. Inside, the large round space with double order of columns is surrounded by a series of niches and chapels in stately Neo-Classical style. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: rviswana1962 |
 Photo: Bruno Gerber |
 Photo: il Presbite |
 Photo: Ron Ordansa |
 Photo: Mirella Marinelli |
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Baroque church |
Via Giuseppe Verdi Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
Built between 1607-30 on the site of the ancient oratory of San Giuseppe, the church is considered the masterpiece of the 18th c. architect, Francesco Maria Ricchino, and the most representative Baroque church in the city. Externally the façade is on two levels marked by pilasters and columns. A large pediment with a balcony window stands on the tall base framing the majestic entrance surrounded by statues (by Giovanni Piazza and Francesco Somaini in 1800). Behind the façade, the octagonal body of the church is flanked by a central, apsed chamber. Within the octagon, reduced to a square with rounded corners, columns and arches support the dome. The square body of the high altar (perhaps added later) stands on the other side of a triumphal arch opposite the entrance. The altar is flanked by chapels and decorated with canvases by Giulio Cesare Procaccini and Melchiorre Gherardini. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ancient romanic church |
7 Piazza San Simpliciano Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 (0)2 869 0683 (per concerti) |
This church features Roman architecture, partly changed by modern interventions. However, San Simpliciano has kept part of the old walls of the Basilica Virginum, which existed in the 4th century. Begun by Bishop Ambrogio and finished by his successor Simplciano as a place to keep the relics of the saints, Martirio, Sisino and Alessandro and Simpliciano himself, the structure is built using the famous latin cross design. The current building has three naves of equal height and a semicircular apse with frescoes of the Coronation of Mary, by Bergognone. This is also a popular concert venue. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wookieonair |
 Photo: Gianluca Fabrizio |
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Ancient church in the historic Brera area |
2 Piazza del Carmine Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 8646 3365 http://www.chiesadelcarmine.it |
At the entrance to the historic Brera quarter is the church dedicated to S. Maria del Carmine. It was built in 1400 for Gian Galeazzo Visconti on an old Carmelite instituition which was abandoned because of the neighbouring castle in construction. Planned by Bernado da Venezia according to a typical square design, already used by the architect for the church del Carmine di Pavia, the building had many interruptions that lasted until 1456 with the intervention of Pietro Solari. Transformed in the Baroque era, the church was brought back to gothic form by the radical intervention of the architects Giuseppe Pestagalli (1826-39) and Carlo Maciachini (1880) who also planned the facade, and Ambrogio Annoni in 1912. Inside the church, the sculptures, paintings and wooden inlay from the 15th-17th centuries, are all of note and there are two surviving cloisters in which fragments of roman and medieval sculptures can be found as well as parts from the fifteenth century which come from sepulchral monuments which were once in the church. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Eneko Ametzaga |
 Photo: M. Luisa Spagnuolo |
 Photo: principemm |
 Photo: Stefano Fassone |
 Park near the old square |
Parco Sempione Milan, Milan 20121 Italy |
The Park occupies the place of the ancient Piazza d'Armi. It was initiated in 1980 according to the designs of Architect Alemagna. It is a Romantic style park with English style organization. It became, from the time of its opening, a centre of public initiative for expositions, such as the re-uniting Exhibition of 1894 and the International Exhibition of 1906 from which remains the functioning Aquarium pavilion. At its borders rises the Art Palace, built in 1931 by design of Architect Giovanni Muzio, the centre of the Triennial of Milan and the Park Towers, planned in 1933 by Giò Ponti. It is bordered by the Castle, the arena, the Peace Arch, and the North Railway yard. Special Interest: The fountain "dei Bagni Misteriosi", by the painter De Chirico and the mermaid bridge, in cast iron, transported to the park when the Canal was closed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Antonio Perez Rio |
 Photo: kockas |
 Photo: Alberto Roseo |
 Photo: giusec |
 Photo: Marco Cassè |
 Photo: Alessandro Vecchi |
 Photo: Bryan Allison |
 Photo: Ryan Shelton |
 Photo: latigi |
 Photo: Giovanni Mitolo |
 Photo: Rodrigo Schmidt |
 Photo: scaramau1 |
 Photo: Vania Benetton |
 Photo: Andrea Bolognese |
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Built in 1608 |
10 Via Senato Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (l'ufficio turistico) |
Designed in 1608 by Fabio Mangone, and commissioned by Federico Borromeo, this college was destined for the training of the Swiss clergy. Its monumental architecture revolves around the two courtyards cadenced by double columns. The façade is superb in a semicircular arrangement, by Franco Maria Richini, providing a link between the street front and the axis of the interior courtyards. Today the building houses Milan's State Archives. Feature of interest: There is a copy of a statue by Picasso on the small piazza in front of the façade. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A leonine monument |
Piazza San Babila Milan, Milan 20121 Italy +39 2 7252 4301 (L'ufficio Turistico) |
In Piazza San Babila, in front of the church of the same name, there is a tall column in sandstone on the top of which a famous lion was put in 1656, as request by the Duchy of Serbelloni. The Medieval emblem of the Porta Orientale district, this lion is the subject of a popular legend, according to which it was stolen from the Venetians during a siege. Apparently, the Ventian soldiers, after hearing the noise made by a baker of Milan during his nighttime work, thought that they had been discovered by the city's soldiers, and they abandoned their hiding places. In doing so, they revealed themselves to the Milanese, who had time to arm themselves and defend the city. After the victory, the Milanese took their standards and weapons, along with the lion, a copy of the one from St. Mark's, which was the Venetians mascot. Review © 2007, Wcities |