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Arches of Ancient Porta Nuova: A Glimpse into Milan's Medieval Past

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Discover Milan's medieval past at the Arches of Ancient Porta Nuova, a historic gateway blending seamlessly with the city's modern landscape.

The Arches of Ancient Porta Nuova, located on Via Alessandro Manzoni in Milan, are the remnants of a medieval gateway dating back to the 12th century. These arches offer a glimpse into Milan's historical city walls and the city's evolution over the centuries. Flanked by the bases of two towers, the arches showcase a blend of architectural styles, bearing witness to the city's rich heritage.

A brief summary to Arches of Ancient Porta Nuova

  • Via Alessandro Manzoni, Milan, Metropolitan City of Milan, 20121, IT
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Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Arches of Ancient Porta Nuova.

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere.
  • Take your camera to capture the beauty of the arches, especially during sunset for stunning photographs.
  • Explore the nearby streets to discover local shops and delightful eateries.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Piazza del Duomo, walk northeast along Via dei Mercanti, then turn left onto Via Manzoni. Continue straight until you arrive at Via Alessandro Manzoni, where the Arches are located. The walk is approximately 20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Duomo station, take Metro Line 3 (Yellow Line) towards Comasina. Get off at Repubblica station. From there, exit the station and head northeast on Via Turati toward Piazza della Repubblica. Continue straight until you reach Via Alessandro Manzoni, where the Arches of Ancient Porta Nuova are located. A single metro ticket costs €2.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Milan. A taxi ride from the Duomo to the Arches of Ancient Porta Nuova typically takes around 3 minutes and costs between €6 and €8, depending on traffic. Taxi fares in Milan start at €4.10 during weekday daytime.

Discover more about Arches of Ancient Porta Nuova

The Arches of Ancient Porta Nuova stand as a tangible link to Milan's medieval past. Originally constructed in the 12th century as part of the city's defensive walls, the arches marked one of the main entrances to Milan. Over time, the city expanded, and the walls were altered, leaving the Arches of Porta Nuova as a reminder of the city's historical boundaries.The arches themselves are clad in bi-color marble and 'serizzo' gneiss. The pedestrian passageways were opened in 1861 and designed by Agostino Nazari. The side facing Via Manzoni is adorned with Roman funeral plaques and niches housing busts from the first century AD. The opposite side features a copy of a 14th-century marble tabernacle with relief sculptures of the Virgin and Child with St. Ambrose, St. Gervasius, and St. Protasius.Today, the Arches of Ancient Porta Nuova stand near modern developments, juxtaposing the old with the new. The surrounding area is filled with shops, cafes, and cultural attractions, making it a vibrant place for visitors to explore. The arches are a popular spot for photography enthusiasts, especially during sunset when the monument is bathed in golden light.

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