Ca' Granda (Università Statale), Milan - Old building
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Ca' Granda Università Statale Milan

4.6
·2k reviews·Milano, Italy

A monumental Renaissance complex, Ca' Granda is a historic hospital turned University of Milan campus, boasting a grand courtyard and cloister.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer students, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Ca' Granda (Università Statale), Milan - Old building

Ca' Granda Università Statale Milan

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer students, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A monumental Renaissance complex, Ca' Granda is a historic hospital turned University of Milan campus, boasting a grand courtyard and cloister.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"Step into history at Ca' Granda, a breathtaking Renaissance masterpiece that's a living part of Milan's vibrant university."

Vertical photo
TIP

Respect the Campus

Remember it's a working university. Be quiet and mindful of students and staff. :pray:

Check Opening Hours

Hours can vary due to university schedules. Confirm access before you go. :clock:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Courtyard

The Grand Courtyard

Central Courtyard

A vast Renaissance courtyard surrounded by elegant arcades, offering a serene escape and architectural marvel.

The Cloister

The Cloister

Cloister surrounding the courtyard

Experience the tranquility of the historic cloister, a testament to 15th-century design and a peaceful architectural space.

Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Ca' Granda

This historic building, part of the University of Milan, offers a glimpse into Renaissance architecture. While it's a functioning university, visitors can explore its stunning courtyard and cloister. Check visiting hours as they may vary due to academic schedules.

Navigating the University Campus

Ca' Granda is an active university campus. Be mindful of students and staff. While the main courtyard is generally accessible, some areas might be restricted. Respect the academic environment during your visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer students, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Good light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Med school vibes 🩺💉 (wishing we were actually on the main campus) #medicina #medicinetiktok #medicalschool #medicinaechirurgia #IMS #statale #imat #internationalstudent #medicineinitaly
@yiorgosmoustakas
22.6K likes • 206K views

Respect the Campus

Remember it's a working university. Be quiet and mindful of students and staff. :pray:

Check Opening Hours

Hours can vary due to university schedules. Confirm access before you go. :clock:

Photography Etiquette

Capture the beauty, but be discreet. Avoid disrupting classes or study areas. :camerawithflash:

No content available

Tips

from all over the internet

Respect the Campus

Remember it's a working university. Be quiet and mindful of students and staff. :pray:

Check Opening Hours

Hours can vary due to university schedules. Confirm access before you go. :clock:

Photography Etiquette

Capture the beauty, but be discreet. Avoid disrupting classes or study areas. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Ca' Granda for its stunning Renaissance architecture and the serene beauty of its courtyard and cloister. It's appreciated as a free, accessible historical gem within the bustling city, offering a peaceful escape and a glimpse into Milan's past. Some note that it's an active university, so respecting the environment is key.

"Beautiful ex hospital now state university of Law. Lovely building. Inner courtyards ,cloisters and church. Free entrance"

Gabriella Zago Poelman

"If you are a tourist and come to Italy to try authentic food you must come to Sapori restaurant. The staff are so welcoming and the quality of the pasta that is made by them is outstanding."

khiba albuluk

"I mean, there is not much to see there. In fact, it looks nice from the outside, but inside the variety of architectural perks decreases significantly. Just a typical commerce guild from the XIX century. If u walk around the corners there you most likely would.enjoy some pot smell thanks to the UNIMI students"

Artsiom Sidarchuk

What People Like

Magnificent Renaissance architecture
Peaceful courtyard and cloister
Free to explore

What People Dislike

Limited internal access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ca' Granda is centrally located in Milan. You can easily reach it via public transport. Several tram and bus lines stop nearby. The closest metro stations are Missori (M3) and Crocetta (M3), both a short walk away. :subway: :bus:

Parking in central Milan can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation. If you must drive, look for paid parking garages in the vicinity. :car:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, exploring the main courtyard and cloister of Ca' Granda is free for visitors. However, access to specific university buildings or exhibitions might require tickets or prior arrangement. :ticket:

As Ca' Granda is an active university campus, visiting hours can be variable and are subject to academic schedules. It's best to check the official University of Milan website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information. :clock:

Weekend access might be more restricted as it's primarily a place of study and work. While the exterior and courtyard are often visible, internal access may be limited. Always verify hours beforehand. :calendar:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main attractions are the magnificent Renaissance courtyard and its surrounding cloister, showcasing impressive architecture and a sense of historical grandeur. It's a beautiful spot for a stroll and photography. :camerawithflash:

Yes, you can easily explore the main courtyard and cloister in about 30-60 minutes, making it a perfect addition to a Milan itinerary if you're short on time. :stopwatch:

Photography is generally permitted in the public areas like the courtyard. However, be respectful of the university environment and avoid disrupting students or staff. :iphone:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

As it's a university, there might be student cafeterias or small cafes within the campus. However, these are primarily for students and staff. The surrounding area of Milan offers numerous dining options. :forkandknife:

The area around Ca' Granda is well-served by restaurants, cafes, and trattorias. You'll find a variety of Italian cuisine options to suit different budgets and tastes. :pizza:

📸 📸 Photography

The arcades of the cloister offer beautiful symmetry and light. The central courtyard provides a grand perspective. Look for interesting architectural details and play with the natural light. :art:

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the architectural beauty. Golden hour can be particularly stunning. :sunrise:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ca' Granda offers a visually engaging experience for families, even if it's not a typical 'kid-friendly' attraction. The vast courtyard can be a fun space for children to walk around and imagine historical scenes. Point out the impressive architecture and the sheer size of the building. It's a good opportunity to introduce them to Renaissance history in a tangible way. Remember to keep an eye on them as it's an active campus. :family_mm:

🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts

For architecture lovers, Ca' Granda is a must-see. It's a prime example of Renaissance urban planning and hospital design. Pay attention to Filarete's innovative use of the courtyard and cloister system. The building's scale and the uniformity of its design are remarkable. Consider researching its history and architectural significance before your visit to fully appreciate its context. :building_construction:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Renaissance Architecture

Ca' Granda, also known as the Ospedale Maggiore, is a monumental Renaissance complex commissioned by Francesco Sforza in 1456. Designed by architect Antonio Averulino (Filarete), it was intended as a public hospital and a symbol of ducal benevolence. Its innovative design, featuring a large central courtyard surrounded by arcades and interconnected buildings, set a precedent for urban planning and hospital architecture of the era. The building's scale and harmonious proportions are a testament to the architectural ideals of the Quattrocento. Reddit

Today, Ca' Granda is a vital part of the University of Milan, housing various faculties and administrative offices. While it remains a functional academic institution, its historical significance and architectural splendor are accessible to visitors. The vast courtyard, often bustling with students, offers a unique juxtaposition of historical grandeur and modern academic life. Exploring the cloister provides a more tranquil experience, allowing one to appreciate the intricate details and the serene atmosphere that has endured for centuries. It's a living piece of history that continues to serve the community. TikTok

When visiting, remember that you are on a university campus. While the courtyard is generally open, it's important to be respectful of the students and staff. Photography is usually allowed in public areas, but it's wise to be discreet and avoid disrupting academic activities. The building's enduring legacy lies not only in its architectural merit but also in its continuous adaptation and service to the city of Milan over nearly six centuries.

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