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Poldi Pezzoli Museum: A Milanese House of Art

Explore Renaissance masterpieces and decorative arts in the intimate setting of a 19th-century Milanese house-museum, the Poldi Pezzoli.

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The Poldi Pezzoli Museum, located in the heart of Milan, is a captivating house-museum showcasing the exquisite private collection of Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli. Explore masterpieces of Italian Renaissance art, weaponry, and decorative arts within the elegant setting of a 19th-century palazzo.

A brief summary to Poldi Pezzoli Museum

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Armory and Golden Room to see the museum's most impressive collections of arms and armor and Renaissance paintings.
  • Take your time to appreciate the details of the decorative arts, including the intricate lacework, jewelry, and Murano glass.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and events that may enhance your visit.
  • Consider purchasing the Milan House Museums Card for access to other historic house museums in the city.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Poldi Pezzoli Museum is easily accessible by Milan's efficient public transport system. Take the Metro Line 3 (yellow line) to Montenapoleone station, or Metro Line 1 (red line) to Cairoli station. From either station, it's a short walk to the museum at Via Alessandro Manzoni, 12. Alternatively, take Tram Line 1 or 2 and disembark at the Via Manzoni-Montenapoleone stop. A single ticket for public transport costs €2.20 and is valid for 90 minutes. A 24-hour ticket costs €7.60.

  • Walking

    Located in the heart of Milan, the Poldi Pezzoli Museum is within walking distance of many major landmarks, including the Duomo, Teatro alla Scala, and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. From the Duomo, walk north along Via Giuseppe Mengoni, then turn right onto Via Alessandro Manzoni. The museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Milan and can drop you off directly in front of the Poldi Pezzoli Museum. A short taxi ride from the city center (e.g., near the Duomo) will typically cost between €10 and €15, depending on traffic and distance. Keep in mind that fares have a base charge that varies depending on the time of day, with higher rates at night and on holidays. There may be additional charges for luggage.

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Discover more about Poldi Pezzoli Museum

The Poldi Pezzoli Museum, nestled on Via Alessandro Manzoni near the Teatro alla Scala, offers a unique glimpse into the world of a 19th-century Milanese art collector. Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli (1822-1879) transformed his family home into a museum, displaying his vast collection of paintings, sculptures, arms and armor, jewelry, and decorative arts. Opened to the public in 1881, the museum invites visitors to explore art and history within the intimate setting of a private residence. The museum's collection spans various periods, with a strong emphasis on Northern Italian and Flemish artists. Highlights include Renaissance masterpieces by Botticelli, Mantegna, Bellini, and Piero della Francesca. The museum also boasts an impressive armory, showcasing weaponry and armor from the 14th to 17th centuries. Decorative arts, including glassworks, ceramics, textiles, and furniture, further enrich the collection. The building itself is a work of art, with rooms decorated in various historical styles. Although the palazzo suffered damage during World War II, many original features have been preserved or restored. The Dante Study, inspired by the Middle Ages, remains a highlight with its frescoes and stained-glass windows. The Golden Room displays some of the museum's most important paintings, including works by Botticelli and Pollaiolo. A visit to the Poldi Pezzoli Museum offers a personal and engaging experience. The relatively small size of the collection allows for a focused exploration of its treasures. The museum's unique atmosphere, blending art and domesticity, provides a refreshing contrast to larger, more impersonal institutions.

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