Archi di Porta Nuova

Archi di Porta Nuova is a medieval gate in Milan with two original central arches and additional side passages added during the nineteenth-century restoration. The structure incorporates ancient Roman steles into its fabric, showing how older materials were reused as the city changed over time.

The gate was built in the twelfth century as part of Milan's defensive walls and served as a key entry point for travelers and merchants. The large-scale changes made in the nineteenth century shaped its appearance today and reflect how the city modernized.

The marble altar on the exterior shows the Madonna and Child, reflecting how religious symbols were woven into the city's public buildings. This detail shaped the gate's appearance and shows the connection between faith and the structures people saw daily.

You can reach this gate from Piazza Cavour and walk around it to observe the Roman steles built into its walls up close. Being situated on a large square makes it easy to navigate and view the structure from different angles.

This is one of only two surviving entrances from Milan's medieval walls, making it a rare remnant of the city's old defensive system. This scarcity makes it an important place to understand how the original city was protected.

Location: Milan

Architectural style: medieval architecture

Part of: Medieval walls of Milan, Mura medioevali

Address: Piazza Cavour

GPS coordinates: 45.47210,9.19493

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:42