Frescoes in red and gold hues decorate the walls of this stunning church and formerconvent that also houses the city’s archaeological museum.
Visitthe Archaeological Museum of Milan, a grand church and Maximian ruins in thisformer convent. The Chiesa di San Maurizio dates back to the 16th century. Itsgrounds contain museums, ruins and frescoes that attract history and artenthusiasts alike.
TheArchaeological Museum is housed in the convent buildings that were onceoccupied by one of the most important womens’ convents in Italy. Wander betweenrooms to learn about the ancient history of northern Italy through artefactsand paintings. See exhibitions about medieval Milan and ancient Greece, Egyptand Israel.
Thechurch was built in 1503 and even the artworks from the 16th century are stillin good condition. Murals cover the walls of the beautiful nave. See frescoesby famous artists such as Bernardino Luini, his son Aurelio, and SimonePeterzano.
Makeyour way to the Hall of Nuns, a breathtaking hall adorned with floor-to-ceilingfrescoes in gold and red hues. Find the portrait of Saint Catherine and aninterpretation of Saint Agatha and the Marriage at Cana. Come on a Sundaybetween October and June when the 16th-century pipe organ is put to use.Special songs are played for Byzantine Rite celebrations.
Twotowers in the grounds outside the church are part of an ancient Maximian wallthat once circled the city and cut through the grounds. Today one of the towersis used as a bell tower for the church. The polygonal structures give afascinating insight into the ancient history of the area. Leave some time toenjoy the peaceful gardens.
TheChiesa di San Maurizio is open every day and is free to enter. Pay to visit theArchaeological Museum of Milan. You can get to the former convent on foot fromthe Piazza del Duomo along Via Meravigli. It’s just a short walk from thecentral square. There are also two metro stops nearby.
