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Palazzo Litta: A Baroque Masterpiece in Milan

Explore Milan's Palazzo Litta: A Baroque masterpiece with stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural events in the heart of the city.

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Palazzo Litta, also known as Palazzo Arese-Litta, is a stunning Baroque palace in Milan, dating back to the period of Spanish rule. Built in the 17th century, it stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural grandeur, showcasing lavish interiors and exquisite artwork. Today, it serves as a cultural center, hosting exhibitions, offices, and a theater.

A brief summary to Palazzo Litta

Local tips

  • Check the official website for current exhibitions and events before your visit.
  • Visit on weekdays to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
  • Allocate sufficient time to explore both the interiors and the gardens for a complete experience.
  • Bring your camera to capture the intricate details of the palace's architecture and artwork.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Palazzo Litta is located in the historic center of Milan and is easily accessible by foot. From the Duomo, walk along Via Torino, then continue straight until you reach Corso Magenta. Turn right onto Corso Magenta, and Palazzo Litta will be on your left at number 24. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    You can reach Palazzo Litta via Milan's efficient public transport system. Take the Metro to the Cordusio station (Line M1, red line). From there, walk along Via Broletto, then turn left onto Corso Magenta. Palazzo Litta will be on your right. Alternatively, take Bus Line 50 from the central area to Corso Magenta, where the Palazzo Litta is located. A single ticket costs €2.20 and is valid for 90 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Milan. A short taxi ride from the city center to Palazzo Litta will typically cost between €10 and €15, depending on traffic and the exact starting point. Keep in mind that the initial fare on weekdays is around €4.10.

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Discover more about Palazzo Litta

Palazzo Litta, located on Corso Magenta, is a prominent example of Lombard Baroque architecture. Originally constructed between 1642 and 1648 by Francesco Maria Richini for Count Bartolomeo Arese, a highly influential figure in Milan, the palace quickly became a significant social and political hub. It hosted grand receptions for notable figures, including Archduchess Mariana of Austria and Napoleon Bonaparte. In the mid-18th century, the Litta family inherited the palace and commissioned a new façade in the Rococo style, completed in 1763. Designed by Bartolomeo Bolli, the façade features intricate decorations and an elaborate entrance with atlantes supporting a contorted balcony. Carlo Giuseppe Merlo designed the impressive forked staircase (scalona a tenaglia) in 1740, leading to the piano nobile. The interiors were also refurbished, with murals by Giovanni Antonio Cucchi. Throughout its history, Palazzo Litta has undergone several changes. It served as the headquarters of the Società Ferroviaria dell'Alta Italia (later Ferrovie dello Stato) in the last century, resulting in some alterations. Despite war damage and modifications, the palace retains its distinctive features, including the main front on Corso Magenta and the courtyard of honor. Today, Palazzo Litta houses the Regional Directorate of Museums of Lombardy and the Superintendence of Archeology, Fine Arts and Landscape for the Metropolitan City of Milan. It also functions as a cultural center, hosting exhibitions and events.

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