Colonna del Leone

The Colonna del Leone is a stone monument in Piazza San Babila featuring a column carved from Oira stone and topped with a lion sculpture. The feline figure crowns the shaft with a commanding presence that defines the plaza's visual character.

The monument was created in 1628 by artist Giuseppe Robecco to commemorate Milanese triumphs. It endured bombing damage during World War II before undergoing restoration in 1986 and being relocated in 1969 during metro construction.

The lion atop the column refers to the ancient Porta Orientale gate and serves as a symbol of Milan's civic identity. The figure connects the city to its medieval past and the significance of its historic gateways.

The monument sits in a public square and is freely accessible, making it easy to visit during a walk through the area. The best views are found from different angles around the plaza, allowing you to see the sculpture's details and its placement clearly.

The lion that inspired this monument was reportedly seized from the Venetians during earlier conflicts, according to historical inscriptions on the site. This connection to Venetian rivalry adds a layer of complexity to what the monument represents beyond Milanese power.