What is there to do in Milan when it's not Fashion Week? A lot of things! One of which is to see the many museums and galleries here. After all, the city is just as artistic as it is glamorous and fashionable. You'll find that a lot of the places that aren't devoted to fashion are just as beautiful and eye-catching. It's a shame though that, since Italy was one of the countries that the global pandemic hit the hardest, a good number of these museums had to temporarily close down. But the silver lining is it's all the more reason to explore them online.
The Duomo
The iconic Milan Duomo isn't just beautiful on the outside. It's also as majestic on the inside! After all, Italian churches are known to be stunning! From its pristine chapels and baroque decor to the solemn serenity of the place, it's no wonder this landmark has become the symbol of Milan. And even if you can't visit the actual cathedral in-person right now, you can still see what's inside by going online. On YouTube, there are countless videos that explore what's inside the Duomo, a few even explain the many designs and decore as well. Though it's not necessarily like actually visiting the place, it will get you more excited to travel there one day!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Sforza Castle
When you think of castles, you think of cities like
Vienna or
Prague, right? After all, these capital cities are known for their stunning castles and opulent palaces. Very rarely will you associate a city like Milan, prominent for its very urban infrastructure, with castles. Arguably the most historic structure here is the Milan Duomo. But Sforza Castle begs to differ! With its origins dating as far back as the 14th century, this castle-turned-museum is a must-visit in the fashion capital! Especially since it houses masterpieces by the likes of Titian, Tintoretto, Canaletto, and more! Fortunately, this centuries-old museum has joined the 21st-century in offering a virtual tour for everyone in the world.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Pinacoteca di Brera
Where in Milan will you see the works of Raphael, Caravaggio, and Piero della Francesca? In Pinacoteca di Brera! Milan's most prominent art gallery, this is the type of museum that rivals the likes of
The Louvre and
The Met. Even though, unfortunately, it's not as famous as the latter two. Still, touring this place is a must for classical art lovers, be it in-person or online. Thanks to the power of the internet, anyone can simply log in to their website and go to the virtual tour. It offers 360° views of the place as if you're actually there yourself!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Galleria d'Arte Moderna Milano
If you think the only European city with modern art galleries is London, think again! Milan has its own as well, and to prove just how modern it is, they've allowed
Google Arts & Culture to provide a virtual tour for those interested to visit them. Galleria d’Arte Moderna Milano is the premier modern art gallery in the city. It houses works from the likes of Pablo Picasso, Giuseppe Ferrari, Édouard Manet, Vincent Van Gogh, Antonio Canova, and more! And don't worry! Their masterpieces look just as breathtaking online as they do in person! In fact, Google even allows you to zoom in on them if you want!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Museo Poldi Pezzoli
Centuries ago, when noble families stilled ruled many parts of Italy, the noble Trivulzio family reigned supreme in Milan. And one of their descendants, Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli, was a famous art collector. You can see his coveted collection of priceless artworks in Museo Poldi Pezzoli in Milan, both in-person and online. Thanks to Google Arts & Culture, you can easily do the latter on your desktop, laptop, and even your phone. In fact, taking a virtual tour of this museum will allow you to zoom into these historic works of art and see them in full detail!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
National Museum of Science and Technology Leonardo Da Vinci
You probably might just know Leonardo Da Vinci as the painter of the 'Mona Lisa,' don't you? Don't worry, a lot of other people do too as well. But, of course, the famous artist was more than just that. He was, in many ways, a true revolutionary. A 'Renaissance Man,' so to speak. As well as regarded as the 'father of invention.' And you'll be able to see many of his inventions and innovations in the National Museum of Science and Technology Leonardo Da Vinci in Milan. Whether in-person or online through its virtual tour, you'll appreciate the historic figure more after exploring the place.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Milan's museums may not be the point of interest in this glamorous city, but they're fascinating nonetheless. If you can't go to Milan yourself anytime soon, you can just as easily explore these places online through their virtual tours. It's just as exciting as actually visiting them in person!
Hopefully, when you finally go to Milan and see these amazing museums, there will be a lot of
luxury rentals on offer to accommodate you!