What is Quadrilatero d’Oro?

Quadrilatero d’Oro (Golden Fashion Square) is a prestigious shopping quarter in the center of Milan, within the boundaries of Municipio 1. It’s the global center of Italian luxury and haute couture.

The name “Golden Square” has three meanings:

Quadrilatero d’Oro is more than just a shopping destination. The district looks like an open-air art gallery. Neoclassical townhouses and Art Nouveau buildings stand alongside modern boutiques.

Which streets make up Quadrilatero d’Oro?

Quadrilatero d’Oro forms a distinctive square from four main streets.

Via Montenapoleone: the world’s most expensive shopping street

Via Monte Napoleone, often written as Via Montenapoleone, is an exclusive shopping street in Milan, Italy. It is the most expensive street in Europe and currently the most expensive street in the world, having even dethroned Fifth Avenue in New York in 2024.

Since the 1950s, Via Montenapoleone has become one of the most important streets in international commerce. Today, it is characterized by a large presence of stores and showrooms of the world’s most prestigious fashion houses. It is home to stores of brands such as Versace, Armani, Valentino, Gucci, and Prada. It is the most luxurious street in Milan.

Via Montenapoleone was formerly known as the “Contrada del Monte” and owes its name to the financial institution of the same name, which was established in the Napoleonic era to manage the public debt.

Via Monte Napoleone is in Milan’s historic center, about a 10-minute walk from the Duomo Cathedral.

On Via Montenapoleone you’ll find::

The rent per square meter on Via Montenapoleone reached 20,000 euros annually in 2024. That’s more than New York’s Fifth Avenue.

Via della Spiga: a quieter alternative

Also, Via della Spiga is one of Milan’s most luxurious neighborhoods and one of the world’s major fashion centers. It connects Corso Venezia with via Manzoni and, unlike Montenapoleone, is completely closed to traffic. The street is paved, with a large presence of stores and showrooms of major international brands. The street is named after the “Contrada della Spiga” historic district of Milan, part of the Porta Nuova neighborhood, one of the six ancient neighborhoods of Milan’s inhabited center. The name “della Spiga” itself is said to derive from the Spiga family present in Milan during the reign of Francesco II Sforza.

Best boutiques on Via della Spiga:

Each boutique offers exclusive collections in elegant spaces.

Via Manzoni: fashion and culture

Via Manzoni, connecting Piazza della Scala with Porta Nuova, was considered one of the most luxurious streets in Europe in the 19th century. Formerly known as “Corsia del Giardino,” today it bears the name of Alessandro Manzoni, the famous Italian writer. As part of the Quadrilatero della Moda, it attracts top brand boutiques that tempt fashion fans from all over the world. In addition to shopping, it also offers cultural stops – the Gallerie d’Italia, the Poldi Pezzoli Museum, and the Teatro Manzoni await those who want to take a break from spending money.

Via Sant’Andrea: connector between streets

Via Sant’Andrea connects the main arteries of Quadrilatero d’Oro. Historic residences, including Palazzo Morando, have been transformed into fashion house headquarters and boutiques.

Which fashion houses have boutiques in Quadrilatero d’Oro?

Quadrilatero d’Oro has practically all major global fashion houses. For luxury brands, opening a flagship store here is a strategic necessity. The location confirms that a brand belongs to the top tier.

Flagship boutiques in Quadrilatero d’Oro

The boutiques in Quadrilatero d’Oro make an impression. Interiors are designed like works of art, and just walking into a store is an experience.

What’s worth buying in Quadrilatero d’Oro?

Top 5 premium products from Quadrilatero d’Oro

What is the history of Quadrilatero d’Oro?

From aristocratic district to fashion center

The history of Quadrilatero d’Oro goes back to the times of Milanese aristocracy. The district was then called “Quattro Borghi” (Four Villages).

The palaces from the 16th-18th centuries housed Milan’s wealthiest families. They held lavish balls, collected art, received nobility from all over Europe. It was a closed world of Italian elite.

Everything changed in the 20th century. The palaces began passing into the hands of fashion houses. Versace, Prada, Armani – one by one they discovered the charm of historic interiors. They preserved the architecture but gave it new life.

Today, a walk through Quadrilatero d’Oro is a journey between eras. Behind Gucci’s windows hide 18th-century stuccowork. In the Chanel boutique, you stand in a hall where people once waltzed.

What cultural sites are in Quadrilatero d’Oro?

Museo Poldi Pezzoli: art collection on Via Manzoni

Museo Poldi Pezzoli has been open since 1881. It’s the former residence of nobleman Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli.

In the Museo Poldi Pezzoli collection you’ll find:

Museo Bagatti Valsecchi: house-museum on Via Gesù

The Bagatti Valsecchi Museum has been open since 1994. It is one of the most important and best-preserved house museums in Europe. It exhibits collections of Renaissance art assembled by brothers Fausto and Giuseppe Bagatti Valsecchi in the 19th century.

Caffè Cova: historic café from 1817

Caffè Cova was founded in 1817. Antonio Cova established it. The original name was “Caffè del Giardino”. In the 19th century, it was a meeting point for patriots fighting Austrian occupation.

Fun fact: During the Five Days of Milan in 1848, Antonio Cova commanded a barricade against the Austrians. The barricade stood in front of his café. A rifle bullet hit the establishment and remained in the mirror for years as a memento.

Today Caffè Cova is an elegant Milanese salon on Via Montenapoleone.

How do you get to Quadrilatero d’Oro?

Public transportation to Quadrilatero d’Oro

Quadrilatero d’Oro is in the center, so it’s close to other attractions:

Fastest way: Metro M3, Montenapoleone station.

Hotels in the Fashion Quadrangle

The Quadrilatero d’Oro and its immediate surroundings are home to exclusively luxury 5-star hotels, including such icons as the Bulgari Hotel Milano, Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, Armani Hotel, and the historic Grand Hotel et de Milan. The full range of hotels in this exclusive district can be viewed and booked on Booking.com, where current prices, guest reviews, and detailed information about each property are available.

FAQ – frequently asked questions

Summary: why is Quadrilatero d’Oro unique?

Quadrilatero d’Oro is a place that has everything:

1. Status as the world’s most expensive shopping district (Via Montenapoleone: 20,000 euros/m²/year)
2. All major global fashion houses in one place
3. Historic palaces from the 16th-18th centuries
4. World-class museums (Museo Poldi Pezzoli, Museo Bagatti Valsecchi)
5. Authentic Italian luxury and craftsmanship at the highest level

Quadrilatero d’Oro is not just about shopping. It’s a living symbol of Italian fashion, luxury, and style. A must-see for anyone visiting Milan.

San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is a 16th-century church on Corso Magenta, with an interior covered by approximately 43,000 square feet of Renaissance frescoes. Italians call it Cappella Sistina di Milano because every available surface – walls, vaults, arches, pilasters – is adorned with paintings depicting biblical scenes, saints, and martyrs’ stories. It earned this nickname due to the scale of painted decoration comparable to Michelangelo’s masterpiece in Vatican City.

From the outside, it doesn’t look like much – a modest gray stone facade that blends in with other buildings along busy Corso Magenta. For years, tourists rushing to the Duomo or The Last Supper walked right past, with no idea what lay behind those doors. Only when you step inside do you understand where the Vatican comparison comes from. The walls and ceilings are completely covered with frescoes in vivid colors that still make an impression after five hundred years.

Quick Facts – San Maurizio by the Numbers

History of San Maurizio: from Benedictine convent to art gallery

When was the church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore built?

The history of this place dates back to the 8th-9th century, when Monastero Maggiore, the largest and most important Benedictine monastery in Milan, was founded. Originally, the complex was dedicated to Mary. It was only after 964, when Emperor Otto I donated the relic of Saint Maurice, commander of the Theban Legion, to the monastery, that the place took on its current name.

At the beginning of the 16th century, the nuns decided to build a new, larger church. The cornerstone was laid on May 20, 1503. Construction was entrusted to Gian Giacomo Dolcebuono and later continued by Giovanni Antonio Amadeo – both architects were also working on the dome (tiburio) of Milan Cathedral at the time. This was a period of prosperity for the convent, which commanded vast estates and influence in the city.

The Bentivoglio-Sforza family played a crucial role in financing the interior decoration. Alessandro Bentivoglio, then governor of Milan and son of the Lord of Bologna, together with his wife Ippolita Sforza (daughter of Ludovico Sforza, known as il Moro), commissioned the finest artists of the era to decorate the interior. Four of their daughters entered the San Maurizio convent, and one of them – Alessandra – served six terms as prioress.

The golden age ended in 1798 when Napoleon abolished monastic orders. The convent buildings were subsequently used as barracks, a school, and a military hospital. In the 1960s, they became home to the Civico Museo Archeologico di Milano. The church itself remained closed to visitors for decades, its frescoes darkening under layers of grime and moisture.

Key restoration dates for San Maurizio

The restoration took nearly 30 years and cost several million euros. When the church opened to the public in 2006 as part of the Aperti per Voi program run by Touring Club Italiano volunteers, Milan’s media declared that the city had reclaimed its hidden treasure. Since then, over a million people have visited San Maurizio.

A unique layout: a church of two worlds

San Maurizio is an example of a chiesa doppia – a double church, an architectural solution typical of women’s convents. A brick tramezzo, a massive dividing wall, splits the interior into two parts:

During Mass, the nuns observed the celebrating priest through a grate set into the dividing wall. This division had enormous consequences for the art – the tramezzo wall became a canvas for Bernardino Luini’s most spectacular works, and each section of the church received its own decoration suited to its function. Today, both sections are open to visitors.

The Sistine Chapel vs. San Maurizio: a detailed comparison

Comparisons to Michelangelo’s work in Rome come up constantly, but are they justified?

In some ways, yes. San Maurizio, like the Sistine Chapel, is a comprehensive visual narrative where the frescoes create a coherent theological and artistic program. The scale of the undertaking is comparable – every inch of space was used to tell a story. Both projects represent the pinnacle of al fresco painting of their respective eras.

Differences? Of course there are some. Michelangelo worked essentially alone, while Luini worked with an entire school of artists. The style is also different: Roman monumentality and drama versus Lombard softness and lyricism. But for someone standing inside, these academic distinctions cease to matter.

San Maurizio vs. the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City

Inside San Maurizio: the extraordinary frescoes

Approximately 43,000 square feet of frescoes cover every available surface – walls, vaults, arches, pilasters. Everything tells a story: biblical, hagiographic, allegorical.

The colors, despite five centuries, still impress. Lapis lazuli blues, warm golds, delicate pink flesh tones. Light streaming through the high windows creates a play of shadows on the painted architecture. Luini’s characteristic gentleness of figures and delicate sfumato (the soft shading technique borrowed from Leonardo) give the interior an atmosphere of tranquility.

Who painted the frescoes at San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore?

The principal creator of the frescoes was Bernardino Luini (c. 1481-1532), the leading painter of the Milanese Renaissance, who worked here with his school from 1522 to 1530.

Born near Lake Maggiore, Luini became the most important Milanese painter after Leonardo da Vinci. Although he was never a formal student of the master, he learned from him the famous sfumato. His hand is immediately recognizable: monumental figures with classical proportions, gentle faces with a slight smile (that “Leonardesque” smile), flowing drapery, timeless compositional calm.

Major works at San Maurizio – where to find them

Other artists at San Maurizio

Luini didn’t work alone. Contributors to the decoration include:

Hidden details and curiosities

When visiting San Maurizio, keep an eye out for these details:

Unicorns on Noah’s Ark – in the flood scene painted by Aurelio Luini, these mythical creatures stand ready to board the ark alongside the other animals.

Portrait of the Countess of Challant – some art historians suggest that in the martyrdom of St. Catherine scene, Luini painted the face of Catherine of Challant, a governor’s mistress who was beheaded in 1526 for allegedly ordering the murder of her lover. Matteo Bandello wrote in his Novelle: “Whoever would like to see her face portrayed from life, let him go to the church of Monastero Maggiore, and there he will see her painted.”

Aurelio Luini’s dog – the painter’s son hid his dog in three different scenes. You’ll find two portraits in the nuns’ choir: one in the Noah’s Ark scene (lower left corner), the other – find it yourself!

The black square on the ceiling – in the nuns’ choir, a section of uncleaned fresco was deliberately left on the vault. This black square shows what all the paintings looked like before restoration – the contrast with the bright colors around it is striking.

Planning your visit: San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore

What are the opening hours of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore?

The church is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM). It is closed on Mondays and on January 1, May 1, and December 25.

Groups (minimum 8 people, maximum 30 + guide): Starting January 1, 2026, groups may enter only at designated times: 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:15 PM, 3:15 PM, 4:15 PM. Only one group is allowed per slot. Reservations are required and must be made by contacting Aster (prenotazionisanmaurizio@spazioaster.it) by 5:00 PM on the Friday before your visit.

Is San Maurizio free to visit?

Yes, admission to the church is completely free. You don’t need a reservation if you’re visiting individually or in a group smaller than 8 people. This is one of San Maurizio’s greatest advantages – you can see a masterpiece of Renaissance painting without spending a cent.

How long does it take to visit San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore?

Plan for at least 45 minutes to see both sections of the church. You’ll start in the public nave (Aula dei Fedeli), then pass through a side door into the nuns’ choir (Coro delle Monache). If you’re interested in art and want to examine the fresco details, you could easily spend 2 hours here.

How to get to San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore?

The church is located at Corso Magenta 15. The fastest way to get there is by metro M1 or M2, getting off at Cadorna station, which is a 5-minute walk away.

• Address: Corso Magenta 15, 20123 Milano
• www: museoarcheologicomilano.it

Metro:

From Cadorna, cross the square, turn right onto Via San Nicolao, and at its end turn left onto Corso Magenta. The church will be on your right, next to the Archaeological Museum.

Tram: Lines 16, 19 – Corso Magenta Via Nirone stop (right at the church)

Bus: Lines 50, 58 – Cadorna stop

On foot:

Practical tips before you enter

Dress code: This is still a place of worship – modest attire is required. Covered shoulders and knees. In summer, bring a scarf for your shoulders.

Photography: Photos are allowed for personal use, but no flash or tripods. Be quiet and respectful of other visitors.

Accessibility: Visitors with mobility impairments can only access the Coro delle Monache through the Archaeological Museum (entrance at Corso Magenta 15). The public nave has steps. Call ahead at +39 02 8844 5208 to let them know you’re coming.

No restrooms: The church has no bathrooms. Use the restrooms at the nearby Archaeological Museum (paid admission: €5) or at cafés along Corso Magenta.

Audio guide: The church doesn’t offer official audio guides, but volunteers often provide basic information in Italian and English.

What to see in the San Maurizio area?

Within a 10-minute walk from the church, you will find some of Milan’s most important attractions: the Archaeological Museum, Leonardo’s Last Supper, the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio, and the Sforza Castle.

The Civico Museo Archeologico di Milano (Corso Magenta 15) is located right next to San Maurizio, in the buildings of a former monastery. You will see Roman ruins, including a tower from Maximian’s fortifications.

Santa Maria delle Grazie and The Last Supper (8-minute walk) Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece in the refectory of the Dominican church.

Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio (10-minute walk) Milan’s most important Romanesque church, founded in 386 AD by Saint Ambrose, the city’s patron saint.

Castello Sforzesco (10 minutes on foot) Ogromna forteca Sforzów z kompleksem muzeów.

Suggested one-day itinerary: “Renaissance Milan”:

Where to eat near San Maurizio?

Within a few minutes’ walk, you’ll find both elegant restaurants for lunch and simple osterias with homemade cuisine.

San Maurizio: practical information summary

As you’re leaving, turn around one more time. For 200 years, no one came here, the frescoes darkened, and the city forgot its treasure. Today you can see it for free, in peace. That’s a rare privilege.

More information:

The Pinacoteca Brera, known in Italy as “Pinacoteca di Brera,” is one of the most renowned art galleries in Europe, located in the historic heart of Milan— in the Brera district. This extraordinary gallery not only houses works by great masters of painting but also weaves a fascinating narrative about Italian culture and art.

Within these grand walls, you will discover a collection that has captivated art lovers from around the world for centuries. Each painting you see here has its own unique story. You will have the opportunity to stand face to face with the works of the greatest masters, from Caravaggio to Raphael. Their canvases not only astonish but also offer a deeper understanding of the times in which they were created.

If you decide to visit this place, prepare for a journey through centuries of Italian art that has shaped the culture of Italy and influenced the entire European artistic tradition.

History of the Pinacoteca Brera – From Napoleon’s Establishment to the Center of Italian Art

It all began in 1809 when Napoleon decided to create a public art gallery in the heart of Milan. The choice fell on a building on Via Brera, where works from territories conquered by France were to be displayed. Thus began the fascinating history of a place that eventually became one of the most important cultural institutions in Italy.

Initially, the gallery featured mainly religious works sourced from confiscated collections of churches and monasteries. Over the years, the collection systematically grew, incorporating paintings by artists from various eras and regions, creating an impressive overview of art history—from the Renaissance to contemporary times.

Why is the Pinacoteca Brera so special?

The unique collection of the Pinacoteca Brera impresses not only with the richness of its holdings but, above all, with the way the works are presented. In 38 gallery rooms, you can admire masterpieces arranged chronologically, telling the fascinating story of the development of European art.

Each room offers a new perspective on the evolution of styles and painting techniques, allowing visitors to trace the development of art from the Middle Ages to contemporary times.

Today, the gallery continues its mission as a center for art and education. Regularly organized exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events attract both Milanese locals and tourists from around the world.

Palazzo di Brera – Home of the Pinacoteca

Palazzo di Brera, which houses the Pinacoteca, is a building with a fascinating history dating back to the 14th century. Initially, it was a monastery for the Order of the Humiliati, later serving as a Jesuit college, and ultimately transforming into the center for art and culture that we know today.

As you stroll through the building, you’ll notice the remarkable blend of Renaissance and Neoclassical styles. In the 17th century, architect Francesco Maria Richini gave the building a austere yet dignified character. Later, in the 18th century, Giuseppe Piermarini made further modifications, creating the impressive entrance on Via Brera 28 and the monumental stairs that still lead visitors to the gallery today.

The building itself is a work of art and an important part of Milan’s architecture. Walking through its corridors, one can see how architectural styles have changed over the centuries.

Renaissance austerity intertwined with Neoclassical elegance creates an intriguing blend that reflects the rich history of this place.

If you think that only a museum is housed here, you’re mistaken. Palazzo Brera is more than just the Pinacoteca. Within its walls, you will also find other important institutions, such as the Academy of Fine Arts, the Braidense National Library, and the Astronomical Observatory.

Collection of the Pinacoteca Brera – Key Works and Their Artists

The Pinacoteca Brera in Milan is a true time capsule of European art. The collection spans from the Middle Ages to modernity, showcasing the diversity of painting schools. From mystical medieval images to Renaissance masterpieces and Baroque and modern works, the gallery offers a unique overview of art history. Here are just a few of them:

“Il Bacio” by Francesco Hayez – a Kiss that Made History

Hayez‘s “The Kiss” quickly became an icon of Romanticism and one of the most recognizable paintings in the Pinacoteca Brera. To this day, it captivates with its realistic details and the intensity of emotions it evokes in viewers.

However, this work also holds deep patriotic significance. Painted in 1859, shortly after the liberation of Milan from Austrian rule, it references the colors of the lovers’ attire, which correspond to the Italian flag, symbolizing the rebirth of Italy and hope for a better future.

The Lamentation of Christ by Andrea Mantegna

The painting depicts the lifeless body of Christ surrounded by grieving loved ones. What makes this work stand out is the way the artist utilized perspective. When you look at the painting, you feel as if you are standing at the feet of the deceased, which adds an extraordinary sense of realism and emotional depth to the scene.

Mantegna created this masterpiece in the 1480s, and today it is regarded as one of the key paintings of the Renaissance. His innovative approach to perspective and the anatomy of the human body had a profound impact on the development of painting.

Madonna and Child Surrounded by Saints by Piero della Francesca

“Madonna and Child Surrounded by Saints” is an extraordinary work of art by Piero della Francesca, created during the Renaissance. The painting depicts the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus on her lap, surrounded by a group of holy figures.

The Marriage of Mary and Joseph by Raphael (1504)

“The Marriage of Mary and Joseph,” created by the just 21-year-old Raphael in 1504, is now one of the most valuable paintings in the collection of the Pinacoteca Brera.

The painting depicts the wedding ceremony of Mary and Joseph, with a priest at the center and groups of figures on both sides. The background features an impressive Renaissance-style temple, and through the open doors, a gentle landscape is visible.

In addition to the aforementioned masterpieces, the Pinacoteca Brera houses many other outstanding works of art, such as the richly gilded… the Saint Luke Polyptych by Andrea Mantegna from the 15th century, The Sermon of Saint Mark by Gentile and Giovanni Bellini, the Pietà by Giovanni Bellini, Spring Pastures by Giovanni Segantini, Gazebo in the Garden by Silvestro Legi, numerous portraits by Amedeo Modigliani from 1915, and works by the futurist Umberto Boccioni, such as Fight in the Gallery from 1910.

Thoughtful Interior Arrangement of the Pinacoteca

As you stroll through the Pinacoteca Brera, you will immediately notice the care with which its interiors have been designed. The arrangement of the rooms is intentional—the galleries are laid out in a chronological and thematic order. It’s like a journey through the pages of art history, where each chapter is represented by a different room.

Educational and Conservation Activities

The Pinacoteca Brera has a restoration workshop dedicated to the conservation and protection of its collections. Experts work on restoring, conserving, and studying artworks using advanced techniques and technologies. The workshop also serves an educational purpose, organizing workshops, demonstrations, and lectures to help the public understand the processes of art conservation. Students, researchers, and art enthusiasts can deepen their knowledge of restoration techniques here.

The Pinacoteca Brera offers a wide range of educational programs, including workshops and courses available for various age groups and levels of knowledge. These educational initiatives aim to spread awareness of art and its conservation among a broad audience.

Visiting the Pinacoteca Brera: Practical Information about the Museum

Opening hours

The Pinacoteca Brera is open to the public during specific hours that may vary by season. Typically, it is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with closures on Mondays. It is advisable to check the current opening hours on the gallery’s official website before planning your visit.

Pinacoteca Brera: Tickets (Various Pricing Options)

Tickets can be purchased both online and on-site. Various ticket options are available, including standard, discounted, and group tickets. Free admission days are often organized, providing an excellent opportunity to visit the gallery.

Standard Tickets:

Discounts and Free Admission

School Groups

Free admission for:

Additional Services:

Special Offers:

Mandatory Reservation: A visit to the gallery requires prior booking of the date and time through the BreraBooking system. After completing the reservation process, you will receive a code to present at the museum entrance.

Punctuality: It is very important to arrive on time. If you arrive at a different time or are more than 15 minutes late, you will not be allowed to enter the museum.

Important: Groups can consist of a maximum of 23 people plus a guide, with entry every 30 minutes.

How to Get to the Pinacoteca Brera?

The Pinacoteca Brera is located in the heart of Milan, making it extremely easy to reach by public transport.

Walking from Piazza Duomo to the Pinacoteca di Brera

The Pinacoteca Brera is located about 1.2 kilometers from the Duomo Cathedral. The walk should take no more than 20 minutes.

Tips for Visiting the Pinacoteca Brera

Where to Rest During Your Visit?

Inside the gallery, there are areas where visitors can rest, including benches and relaxation zones. In the vicinity of the Pinacoteca Brera, there are also numerous cafes and restaurants that provide the perfect spot for a coffee and to enjoy local cuisine.

How to Best Explore

It’s advisable to take advantage of available audio guides or join a guided tour. This is a great way to gain a better understanding of the history and significance of the artworks on display. Additionally, it’s recommended to start your visit with the oldest collections, gradually moving on to the more contemporary exhibits.

Special Exhibitions and Events

The Pinacoteca Brera regularly organizes special exhibitions and events, providing an excellent opportunity to see unique works and participate in the cultural life of Milan. Checking the events calendar on the gallery’s website can help in planning your visit.

Conclusion

The Pinacoteca di Brera in Milan is a true treasure trove of art, where you can admire masterpieces from the Renaissance to contemporary times. Each room tells a different story, inviting reflection on human genius and creativity.

If you find yourself in Milan and love art, be sure to make time for a visit to the Pinacoteca. This experience will linger in your memory and help you gain a deeper understanding of the rich and diverse history of art.

Stresa is a picturesque town on Lake Maggiore in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. It is known for its beautiful views, rich history, and an excellent base for exploring the surrounding attractions, including the famous Borromean Islands.

Saint Ambrose and the Duchess – historical curiosities of Stresa

Stresa is a place full of interesting history. The parish church hides the remains of St. Ambrose, which were brought from the catacombs in Rome in 1835. Since then, the saint has been revered there as the protector of the youngest. In August 1912, the funeral of Elizabeth of Saxony took place in Stresa. The Duchess of Genoa spent more than half a century of her life in the city.

What to see in Stresa: popular attractions

The city center is small, but captivates with its atmosphere. In the main square – Piazza Cadorna – there is always something going on. It is here that locals and tourists squat in cafes, enjoy ice cream and local cuisine. You can also buy handmade souvenirs and crafts in the neighborhood stores.

Mottarone Peak – Vetta di Mottarone: a peak from which you can see Lake Maggiore and the Alps like the palm of your hand. From its summit, which rises 1,491 meters above sea level, there is a magnificent view of the Alps, Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta and the surrounding countryside.

To świetne miejsce dla każdego – zarówno dla tych, którzy lubią spacery i przyrodę, jak i dla narciarzy. W zimie można tu jeździć na nartach, a w pozostałe miesiące wędrować po górskich szlakach, podziwiając okolicę. Żeby dostać się na szczyt, mamy do wyboru dwie możliwości – możemy wejść pieszo albo wjechać kolejką.

Lake Maggiore (Lago Maggiore) in northern Italy

Lake Maggiore, known in Italian as Lago Maggiore, is the second largest lake in Italy and straddles the border between Italy and Switzerland. It is a post-glacial lake with picturesque landscapes and a rich tourist offer.

The Borromean Islands (Isole Borromee)

The Borromean Islands (Isole Borromee) are an archipelago of five small islands located in Lake Maggiore in Piedmont, northern Italy. They are named after the princely Borromeo family, which ruled them from the 14th century to the present day.
The archipelago includes Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, Isola Madre, Isolino di San Giovanni, and Isolino degli Innamorati (Scoglio della Malghera).

The Borromean Islands are mainly accessible to tourists between March and October. However, Isola dei Pescatori is accessible year-round. Visitors can explore the islands by boat from Stresa’s port.

Isola Madre

Isola Madre (Mother Island) is the largest island of the Borromean archipelago, located in Lake Maggiore, Italy. It is 330 meters long and 220 meters wide.

It is primarily known for its beautiful botanical gardens and historic palace, forming a unique tourist attraction.

History

The island was known as early as the 9th century and was originally called Isola di San Vittore. In 1501, Lancillotto Borromeo introduced citrus cultivation to the island, and in the 1580s. In the 16th century, Renato I Borromeo began expanding the family residence in the Renaissance style.

Attractions on Isola Madre

Worth Knowing

Isola Madre is a beautiful island that impresses with its history, architecture, and, above all, botanical richness. It is one of the most beautiful corners of Lake Maggiore.

There is a restaurant on this island: La Piratera. Guests appreciate its unique location and excellent cuisine. The restaurant offers traditional Italian dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

Fishermen’s Island – Upper Island (Wyspa Rybaków)

Isola dei Pescatori, also known as Isola Superiore, is the only island permanently inhabited by a small community in the archipelago.

The island is about 350 meters long and 100 meters wide. It is inhabited by a permanent community engaged in fishing for generations. The island’s distinctive architectural features are its narrow, winding streets, picturesque fishermen’s houses, and a historic 17th-century church dedicated to St. Victor.

San Vittore Church

The San Vittore Church is a key tourist attraction on this picturesque island and serves as a religious center for the local community.

This historic church, dating back to the 17th century, is one of the landmarks of Isola dei Pescatori. Its architecture is stunning, especially the original apse with pointed-arch windows characteristic of the era, testifying to the rich history and architectural tradition of the time.

Good to know

Isola Bella

Isola Bella is located in the Bay of Borromeo, about 400 meters from Stresa, on Lake Maggiore’s western shore. It was transformed from a stony island into a Baroque paradise commissioned by the Borromeo family in the 17th century. Work on the palace and gardens began in 1632 by Charles III Borromeo, who wanted to create a magnificent residence for his wife, Isabella D’Adda, after whom the island was named.

The final appearance of the palace and gardens was given under Renato Borromeo, who, in 1585, entrusted architect Pellegrino Tibaldi to oversee the work.

Isola Bella – attractions

Sightseeing in Isola Bella

Isola Bella is accessible to tourists and can be visited by public boat from Stresa, Baveno, Verbania, or Arona.

The island is open to the public from March to October, and entrance tickets can be purchased for both the palace and the gardens.

Ticket prices (examples, subject to change):

Na wyspie znajduje się Boutique Hotel Elvezia i kilka restauracji, takich jak: Il Fornello, Ristorante Vittoria czy Ristolounge Elvezia.

Isolino di San Giovanni (Islet of St. John)

Isolino di San Giovanni is a small island belonging to the Borromean Islands group in Lake Maggiore in northern Italy. It is located north of the other islands in the group, about 30 meters west of the shore of Pallanza, part of the town of Verbania.

Islet of the Lovers (Wysepka Zakochanych) – Rock of the Malghera

Isolino degli Innamorati, also known as Scoglio della Malghera, is a small, uninhabited island. It is located in the western part of Lake Maggiore, near the larger island of Isola Bella, in the Bay of Borromeo, southwest of Stresa.

How to get to the Boromean islands

To reach the Borromean Islands from Stresa, you have several transportation options:

How to get to Stresa from Milan

Dojazd do Stresy z Mediolanu jest możliwy na kilka sposobów, głównie pociągiem, ale również samochodem lub taksówką. Oto szczegółowe informacje:

By car

Traveling by car from Milan to Stresa is a convenient option for those who value independence and flexibility. Travel time is usually about 1-1.5 hours, depending on traffic and the exact starting location. You can get there by rental car or by your own car, heading north toward Lake Maggiore.

By train

Train travel is the most popular and economical option for getting to Stresa from Milan. Trains depart from various stations in Milan, including Milan Centrale, Milan Porta Garibaldi, and Milan Rogoredo.

Ticket prices start at about $40, and travel time averages 1 hour and 35 minutes. 165 daily connections are available, with direct and connecting options.

By taxi

For those looking for a more direct and convenient option, cab and transfer services from Milan to Stresa are available. Companies such as Taxi Transfer Milan offer transfers to popular destinations and resorts in the region, including Lake Maggiore.

This is usually a more expensive option than the train but can be convenient for groups or people with lots of luggage.

Trip organized from Milan

For those who prefer to avoid the organizational challenges of planning a trip from Milan to Stresa on their own, ready-made tour packages are available. These offers provide not only convenient transportation but also organized tours of the charming town of Stresa and the beautiful islands of Lake Maggiore. Using such a solution, travelers can fully devote themselves to exploring the cultural and natural treasures of the region, enjoying a hassle-free trip without having to worry about the logistical aspects of the trip.

Among the available offerings, it is worth mentioning:

Conclusion

Stresa and the Borromean Islands are places that stay in your memory for a long time. Walking through Stresa, you pass historic villas and narrow streets that tell the story of this Italian town. The Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore are stunning with palaces and gardens that look like they came out of a postcard. This is a great destination for both those who enjoy sightseeing and those seeking peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. After such a trip, memories are left that make you want to come back.

The Sforzesco Castle, also known as Castello Sforzesco, is a brick castle located in the center of Milan, Italy. Its origins date back to the second half of the 14th century, when it was built by the Visconti family. The castle, built on a square plan with a courtyard in the center, is surrounded by a wall with battlements and corner towers.

History of the Sforza Castle

The early years

The Sforza Castle was built in the mid-15th century at the behest of the Visconti family, which was ruling Milan at the time. Originally a small fort, it was expanded by the Sforza family, which took control of Milan in 1450. In the following years, the castle was expanded and modernized several times. In 1499, during the Italian Wars, the castle was captured by the French and destroyed.

Renaissance remodeling

Francesco Sforza rebuilt the castle between 1500 and 1550 in the Renaissance style, and it became one of Milan’s most beautiful and important buildings. Over the following years, the castle was expanded and rebuilt many times, and its appearance changed depending on the ruling authorities.

Napoleonic era and restoration

In 1796, Milan was occupied by Napoleon Bonaparte’s troops. The Sforza Castle was converted into barracks, and its appearance changed considerably. After Napoleon’s fall, the castle was turned into a museum and restored. In 1900, the castle was closed to the public due to its poor state of repair.

Castello Sforzesco in the 20th century

After undergoing a painstaking restoration that lasted numerous years, the castle was once again made accessible to the general public in 1905. Following the conclusion of World War II, the castle suffered from significant destruction, yet diligent efforts were made to revive and reopen it to the public. At present, the Sforza Castle is a prominent symbol of historical significance within Milan, ranking among the city’s foremost landmarks and serving as a cherished destination for countless tourists.

Architecture of the castle

External structure

The Sforza Castle in Milan is an impressive castle built of brick. It was built in the mid-15th century on a square plan with a courtyard. A wall with blanks and corner towers surrounds the castle. It also has a dry moat. The castle consists of several buildings connected, each with its function.

Interiors and halls

Sforza Castle is not only a historic building but also a museum. A diverse museum complex has been created in the castle’s chambers, which includes several different establishments. In the museum, you can see collections and major works of art from different eras. It is worth noting the rich frescoes adorning the halls of the castle, which are stunning in their colors and details.

Gardens and courtyards

Milan’s Sforza Castle also has beautiful gardens and courtyards. The gardens have many sculptures and fountains that add to the beauty of the place. Of note is the courtyard of the Filarete Gate, which is one of the most important courtyards of the castle.

Collections and exhibitions

Museums and galleries at Sforza Castle

Castello Sforzesco is not only a historic fortress, but also an important center of culture and art. The castle is home to several museums and art galleries that present rich collections of works of art and objects related to the history of Milan and Lombardy. Here are some of them:

Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico)

It is divided into a prehistoric section and an Egyptian section. The Egyptian section features mummies, funerary masks, painted sarcophagi, and small figures of deities such as the goddess Min-Ptah, Osiris, Isis Horo, depicted as a falcon, and Bastet disguised as a cat, among others.

Pinacoteca Castello Sforzesco

A collection of more than 1,500 works created between the 13th and 18th centuries. Among them are paintings by Filippo Lippi, Titian, Giovanni Antonio Canal (Canaletto) or Correggio.

Museum of Musical Instruments (Museo degli Strumenti Musicali)

It presents various types of musical instruments from parts of the world.

Museum of Antique Art (Museo d’Arte Antica)

It houses, among other things, Michelangelo’s last work, the Pieta Rondanini, and numerous frescoes by Bramante and Leonardo da Vinci.

Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio)

It presents an exhibition of sarcophagi and mummies.

Tickets to the castle and museums

Tickets can be purchased at the venue and on the castle‘s official website, as well as on sites such as Tiqets or GetYourGuide, which offer various ticket options, including tours and city cards. It is worth noting that even for those entitled to a free ticket, it is necessary to book a ticket online. Booking is recommended, especially during peak season.

Consider combining tickets or a city card if you plan to visit other Milanese attractions.

Opening hours of the castle and museums

Milan’s Sforza Castle is open daily.

Entrance to the castle area is possible from 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM.

The castle’s museums are open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with the last ticket sold at 4:30 PM and the last admission at 5:00 PM

Museum of Antique Art (Museo d’Arte Antica)

To reach Sforza Castle, it is best to take the M1 red subway line (Cairoli station) or the green line (Lanza or Cadorna). The castle is close to these stations. Buses numbered 50, 57, 58, 61, and 94 or tram lines 1, 2, 4, 12, 14, 19, and 27 can also be reached near the castle.

Curiosities

Here are some interesting facts about the Sforza Castle in Milan:

The Sforza Castle, also known as Castello Sforzesco, is one of the most important monuments in Milan, Italy. When planning a visit to the Sforza Castle, it is worth remembering that a full tour of the castle, including the museums, can take from 2 to 3 hours, or even half a day.
Therefore, it is worth planning enough time for this attraction. If you do not intend to visit the entire castle or enter the museums, but only look at it from the outside and walk through the courtyards, it is worth visiting during the early morning hours and then visiting the Sempione Park behind the castle. There are no tourists then and it is easy to take nice photos!

Triennale di Milano, an international exhibition of design, architecture and art held every three years in Milan, Italy, owes its name to the Italian word “triennale“, which translates to “every three years“. Since its inception in 1923, the event has been held every three years and is organized by the non-profit cultural institution of the same name. Its mission is to promote the knowledge and appreciation of design, architecture and art, while supporting the development of Italian creativity and design on a global scale. Widely considered one of the most renowned institutions of its kind in the world, it was founded to promote and present Italian design and architecture.

Triennale Building

The exhibition is housed in the Palazzo dell’Arte, a building in the Rationalist style, masterfully designed by architect Giovanni Muzio. Completed in 1933, the building is a testament to Italian architectural class. Within its walls, the Palazzo dell’Arte houses various exhibition spaces, including a large hall for temporary exhibitions, a library and a theater.

Throughout the year, it hosts numerous exhibitions that explore various aspects of design, architecture and contemporary art. These exhibitions serve as platforms to showcase the work of both Italian and international artists and designers, aiming to inspire creativity, innovation and cultural exchange.

In addition to exhibition spaces, the building hosts conferences, workshops and other events on design and architecture. In addition, it operates a design school that provides courses and training programs for both beginning students and professionals.

Overall, the Triennale di Milano plays a significant role as a cultural institution, actively promoting and highlighting Italian design and architecture. It is a favorite destination for art and design enthusiasts visiting Milan, inviting the public to visit exhibitions and participate in events.

The exhibition building is located a short distance from the city center. From the Duomo, just walk along Via dei Mercanti, through Piazza Cordusio and Via Dante to reach Parco Sempione.

Additional information

Monday – Sunday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM

The ticket office is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Tickets can also be purchased online. A guided tour costs an additional 5€ more than the ticket price. Some types of tickets are only available at the ticket office – for more information, you can call +39 02 72434 208.

GAM – The Gallery of Contemporary Art is located in the Villa Reale in Milan, a magnificent neoclassical building surrounded by the greenery of the Porta Venezia Gardens.

The harmony between the era from which the building originated and the works of art that it hosts greatly expands the charm of the tour. The museum houses paintings and sculptures from the late 18th to 20th centuries, with a rich section of 19th-century paintings: this is where the “Quarto Stato” painting of the liberation of the Proletariat is located, among others.

Numerous private donations made it possible to complete the Vismara Collection, Marino Marini Collection, Grassi Collection, and Jucker Collection. These precious funds have produced masterpieces by foreign painters such as Renoir, Manet, Cézanne, and Picasso.

Tickets to the Gallery of Modern Art

Tourist Museum Card – 3-day card € 12.00

A 3-day subscription entitles one entry to each of the city museums (Civic Aquarium, Castello Sforzesco, Modern Art Gallery, Archaeological Museum, Museo del Novecento, Palazzo Morando Museum, Natural History Museum, Risorgimento Museum). The subscription is also available in an electronic version, which can be downloaded directly to smartphones and tablets without the need to print.

Reduced tickets

• adults aged 65 and over
• students of the university and the Academy of fine arts
• employees of the municipal administration in Milan
• Founded in Milan in 1883 by Francis Peck (a butcher from Prague) in Via Orefici, it was a “Prague” type sausage and smoked meat shop that managed to gain a prestigious place in the city.

Free access

• under 18 years of age
• high school students
• teachers accompanying school groups (max. 4 per class)
• disabled people and an accompanying person
• tourist guides and translators (upon presentation of a valid license)
• “Musei Lombardia” / “Musei Valle d’Aosta”
• subscription holders “Tourist Museum Card” holders (3-day cumulative ticket)
• all first and third Tuesdays of the month from 2:00 p.m. and every first Sunday of the month.

This park was born in the spirit of the new “green culture” at the end of the 1960s, on the initiative of Associazione Italia Nostra, which applied for and received a free concession from the City Council in 1975 for a plot of approximately 350,000 m2 of agricultural land that had been unused for years.

Work on the implementation of the project began on March 15, 1974, thanks to the receipt of 30,000 plants from the Forest Guard. three years later, in 1877, the Amici Del Bosco committee was founded to collect funds for the maintenance of the park, which until then had been charged to Italia Nostra.

Il Boscoincitta’, gradually expanded in the following years, provided with car parks, today covers an area of 500,000 m2. It is an unusual park, where the forest part with 280,000 m2 is almost twice as large as the meadows. In addition, there are plenty of streams that connect to form a lake rich in fauna and flora. In the outermost part of the park, distinguished by open glades, there are fish ponds and gardens, breeding areas allocated at random.

The focal point is the ancient Cascina (homestead) of San Romano, the operational headquarters of Boscoincitta’. Rebuilt and renovated after a fire in 1981, it is a documentation and research center, equipped with a “green library”. Teaching and volunteering activities are organized there, but it is also a place of rest and fun, intended for parties and barbecues, which until 1999, when the park was fenced, also took place at night …

Opening hours

Opening: 7.30 (December and January 8.30)
Closing: December and January 17.00, February 18.30, March 19.00, April to September 20.00, October 19.00, November 17.30.

Facilities: PARKING, picnic area, library, bathrooms

Characteristic elements: a lake, gardens and ponds

• Official website boscoincitta.it
• Visit other Parks in Milan

Porta Venezia today are two buildings standing in Oberdan Square. Walking from piazza San Babila towards Corso Buenos Aires, at the end of Corso Venezia you will find right in front of the Porta Orientale.

Porta Venezia (Porta Orientale) until 1860, Porta Riconoscenza in Napoleonic times, is one of the six main gates of Milan, built inside the Bastioni (fortified walls). Located in the northeastern part of the city, it opened the road to Gorgonzola. Today it is characterized by the presence of two neoclassical Vantini buildings, where entry fees were collected (1827-1828), located in the center of Piazza Oberdan,at the beginning of Corso Venezia. In the past, Porta Orientale was a landmark of one of the six historic districts into which Milan was divided, the Porta Orientale district.

History of Porta Venezia

First reconstruction by Piermarini in 1782

Porta Orientale, which thanks to its privileged position (facing Viednia and Austria) was the first gate to be ordered to be rebuilt at the end of the 18th century, ranking it among the most important monuments. The architect assigned to the project was Giuseppe Piermarini, who was in charge of revitalizing the city and its architectural heritage until his death in 1808. At the same time, the Porta Orientale and the Bastioni lost their defensive functions and were only used to collect tolls.

Piermarini, who was already involved in the construction of the nearby gardens(Giardini Pubblici) and the area along the Bastions, began work on a new complex in the classicist style in 1787, but this was quickly discontinued due to harsh criticism of the design. Also in 1787, an alternative design for the toll buildings proposed by Cagnol was proposed, but not considered.

With Napoleon‘s entry into Italy, the Porta Orientale changed its functions, no longer serving defensive purposes or tolls, but was a monument to beautify the city and add to its prestige. In the meantime, its name was also changed to Porta Riconoscenza. In 1806, on the occasion of a visit to the city by Viceroy Eugene de Beauharnais, who had come to the city to marry Augusta of Bavaria, a temporary triumphal arch was built by Cagnola, inspired by the Arch of Titus in Rome.

In 1825, on the occasion of the visit of Austrian Emperor Francis I and his wife Empress Caroline, Cagnola proposed two new designs: the first characterized by a tetrastyle portico, decorated with a chariot and other sculptures, and the second, which was later chosen: characterized by a triple arch, whose bronze model in 1:28 scale is kept in the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana. However, even in this case, he failed to turn it into a permanent project.

Second reconstruction by Vantini (1827-1828)

The current Porta Venezia complex, which remains to this day, was built in 1827 and 1828 by Brescia architect Rodolfo Vantini, following a competition announced in 1826 (in which 32 architects participated). In 1833, statues and bas-reliefs were placed, giving the work its final appearance.

In 1857, on the occasion of the visit to Milan of Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife Elisabeth, a temporary wooden triumphal arch was erected. In those days, it was customary to erect temporary structures of this type, especially on solemn occasions: on the occasion of this visit, a chapel in the Neo-Romanesque style was built in the path of the imperial procession at the Loreto traffic circle, as well as a stage of honor with a canopy in the Piazza Duomo next to the Coperto dei Figini.

In 1860 the name was changed to Porta Venezia, in honor of the city that remained Austrian after the Franco-Austrian War (1859) and in 1882 the large square, from which as many as eight streets diverge, was dedicated to Guglielmo Oberdan, an irredentist hanged by the Austrians.

In the past, it was also known as Porta Renza. The ancient name Porta Orientale – Eastern Gate – does not refer, as is commonly believed, to the fact that it stood to the east of the city (the easternmost of the city is Porta Tosa). It derives from the Latin name of an ancient gate that opened onto Argentiacum, the present Crescenzago.

From 1842 to 1908, outside the walls of Porta Venezia (on the site of the Diana Hotel), were the Diana Baths, the first public swimming pool in the city and in Italy.

In 1923 and 1926, the Venezia day hotel was built under the plaza toward Tadino Street, partially opened until 2006.

Attractions near Porta Venezia:

One of the first major exhibitions this year at Milan’s Palazzo Reale is an exhibition of 110 works by Keith Haring entitled “About Art.” Among them, many of enormous size, some never published or not exhibited in Italy.

Keith Haring is a contemporary American artist, an icon of the New York street art scene, who created in the currents of pop-arr and street art. He died in 1990 at the age of only 31. His first known works are chalk drawings in the New York subway immortalized in the photographs of Tseng Kwong Chi. Around the world, he is best known for his characteristic graffiti, expressive and kept in bright colors.

Dates

• from February 21 to June 18, 2017

Opening hours

Last entry one hour before closing.

Price

Other temporary exhibitions