SempionePark has huge trees, walking paths, grassy lawns and monuments. The 47-hectare(116-acre) park near the historic centre is one of the biggest public gardensin Milan. Its grounds are hugely popular with both locals and tourists who cometo escape the Italian heat and busy city streets in summer. Enjoy a briskstroll through the moody and picturesque winter wonderland in the coldermonths. Two of the park’s biggest attractions are the Branca Tower that offersviews across Milan, and the Arch of Peace, a 19th-century monument dedicated toNapoleon.
Hirea bicycle from vendors in the city and ride along Sempione Park’s many paths.See students, couples and families milling about under the trees when theweather is fine. Do as the locals do and buy cheeses, cured meats and a bottleof northern Italian wine and enjoy long and lazy afternoons in the park. Headto the southern end of the park to find Sempione’s main attractions.
TorreBranca (Branca Tower) is a “modern” tower built in 1933. It was meant to be atemporary construction for an art and architecture exhibition but became alandmark in the city. Climb to the viewing platform that stands 97 metres (318feet) above the ground. Look back across the park to the centre of Milan andthe spires of the Duomo.
TheArch of Peace is a neoclassical monument that today makes an excellent photoopportunity with the park as a backdrop. It was built in 1807 during the timeof Napoleon.
Watcha game of soccer or rugby at the Arena Civica on the edge of the park. Thestadium was built around the same time as the arch and opened by Napoleon.Today its lively soccer matches are well worth the price of a ticket Italians arepassionate about their sport.
SempionePark is open every day. There’s no entry fee. The park is a bit of a walk fromthe Piazza del Duomo, so catch a tram or metro instead. If you come by car, payto park on the southern edge of the park.
