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Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore: The Sistine Chapel of Milan

Discover Milan's hidden gem, the Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, a Renaissance masterpiece adorned with breathtaking frescoes.

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Hidden behind a simple facade on Corso Magenta, the Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is a stunning Renaissance church, often called the "Sistine Chapel of Milan". Originally part of a Benedictine convent, its interior is completely covered in vibrant frescoes by artists like Bernardino Luini, offering a glimpse into Milan's artistic and religious history.

A brief summary to Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore

  • Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the art.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the adjacent Archaeological Museum to explore Milan's ancient history.
  • Take your time to admire the intricate details of the frescoes, especially those by Bernardino Luini.
  • Check the church's schedule for concerts, as it offers a unique acoustic experience in a historical setting.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Milano Centrale Station, take the M2 (Green Line) subway to Cadorna FN. From Cadorna, it's a short walk along Corso Magenta to the church. A single metro ticket costs €2.20.

  • Walking

    From the Duomo, walk northwest along Via Dante, then turn left onto Corso Magenta. The walk is approximately 15 minutes. The church will be on your left.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Milan. A taxi from Milano Centrale Station to the church will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic. Note that taxi fares have a base charge that varies depending on the time of day.

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Discover more about Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore

The Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, located on Corso Magenta in Milan, is a hidden gem that reveals a breathtaking interior despite its unassuming exterior. This 16th-century church, once connected to the most important female Benedictine convent in the city, boasts the title of the "Sistine Chapel of Milan" due to its extensive and exquisite frescoes. Founded in Lombard times, the complex reuses ancient Roman structures, including a polygonal tower from the Maximian walls and a square tower from a lost Hippodrome, now the church's bell tower. The Benedictine monastery is documented from the 8th-9th century, initially dedicated to Mary. Emperor Otto I donated a relic of St. Maurice to the monastery in 964. The church's construction, which began in 1503 and concluded in 1518, was led by Gian Giacomo Dolcebuono and Giovanni Antonio Amadeo. The interior is divided into two main sections: one for the public and another for the nuns of the monastery. This division reflects the strict separation maintained until the late 18th century. The nuns would attend mass from behind a grate. The walls and ceilings are adorned with frescoes primarily from the 16th century, featuring works by Bernardino Luini and his sons, as well as Campi and Peterzano. These frescoes depict religious scenes, saints, and portraits of noble Milanese families. The Bentivoglio family, prominent patrons of the church, are featured in several frescoes. The organ, dating back to 1554 and crafted by Giovan Giacomo Antegnati, is located in the area where the nuns once sat. Today, the church is open to the public and also serves as a concert hall. The adjacent monastery now houses the Civic Archaeological Museum. Visitors can explore the church's stunning interior and learn about its rich history and artistic significance.

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