TheBrera Art Gallery is significant not only for its incredible collection of artbut for the building it’s housed in. The former 14th-century monastery holdsworks by famous names such as Raphael and Caravaggio. Browse art from the Neoclassical,Napoleon and Romantic eras. The Astronomical Observatory, Academy of Fine Artsand Braidense National Library are all located within the same complex, makingthis a convenient one-stop cultural experience.
Arttook over from religion when the former monastery became the Academy of FineArts in the 1700s. Many of the early features of the buildings and groundsremain, including courtyards, monuments and walkways. Look for the grand statueof Napoleon in the first courtyard at the entrance to the gallery.
Studentsfrom the Academy of Fine Arts read and chat on the lawns. Stroll amongst exoticplants and traditional flowerbeds in the Botanic Garden, browse historic booksin the Braidense National Library and admire the Astronomical Observatory,which was once owned by the Jesuits before the government took control in the18th century.
TheBrera Art Gallery has an extensive collection of more than 400 works of art.See pieces as old as the 14th century and modern installations. A chronologicaldisplay gives a good insight into the history of art in Italy, from religiouspaintings to noble portraits. See Madonnaof the Cherubim by Andrea Mantegna and TheMarriage of the Virgin by Raphael, which are among the most importantworks. Look out for artists such as Caravaggio, Giovanni Bellini, Canaletto andFattori. Portraits by Titian and Rembrandt depict life in the 15th century.Browse temporary exhibitions that push the boundaries of modern art.
TheBrera Art Gallery is closed on Mondays and certain public holidays. Buy aticket to enter. Check the official website for opening hours and ticketprices.
Thegallery is in central Milan, within easy reach of a metro stop and a short walkfrom many hotels and attractions.
