6 Museums and Historic Sites of Milan

Few countries can claim as extensive a heritage of artistic expression as Italy. To experience Italy's art firsthand is to touch the soul of the country. From archeological sites to architecture, museums and galleries, you will discover the many ways Italy's craftsmen and artists have articulated their passion over the years. Milan is home to many cultural institutions. Here are just a few of the museums and historic sites of Milan.

Pinacoteca di Brera
Milan's most esteemed museum, where the Accademia di elle Arti was founded in the 1700's, its 38 rooms host a fine art collection covering Renaissance and Baroque art from the 15th to 20th century.

The Museum of Contemporary Art (CIMAC)
Opened in 1984, located on the 2nd floor of Palazzo Reale, showcasing the cream of modern Italian and international artists.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
A glorious glass and steel-covered arcade connected to Piazza della Scala, known for its high-end stores and restaurants.

Il Duomo (Milan Cathedral)
This grandiose Gothic Cathedral in the city's main square is made of white marble, with a roof of 135 spires and countless statues and gargoyles, and can hold up to 40,000 worshippers.

Teatro alla Scala
Perhaps the definitive opera house, opened in 1778, the theater also houses the Museo Teatrale, featuring a remarkable array of opera costumes, paintings, scripts, statues and other materials.

Santa Maria delle Grazie
Built between 1465 and 1482, this Renaissance church is famous for the mural depicting the Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci.

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