Palazzo dell'Ambrosiana

Palazzo dell'Ambrosiana is a Baroque building in central Milan that fills an entire city block with two separate entrances on Piazza Pio XI and Piazza San Sepolcro. Inside are a historic library, art gallery, and spaces for artistic learning connected by corridors and courtyards.

A cardinal commissioned the palace's construction in 1609, with several architects contributing to its design. The project developed into an institution dedicated to preserving books and artwork for the city.

The library within the palace was among the first of its kind, bringing together books, art, and artistic training in one place. Visitors can see how this institution has preserved and shared knowledge and creative learning across centuries.

Visitors can explore the rooms during regular opening hours, with guided tours in multiple languages and audioguides available. The best time to visit is on quieter mornings or weekdays when there are fewer crowds.

Excavations beneath the building revealed remains of the ancient Roman Forum, showing the palace sits on foundations from antiquity. This connection to the city's early history makes every visit a journey through different periods of Milan.

Location: Milan

Architectural style: Italian Baroque architecture

GPS coordinates: 45.46340,9.18572

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:23