Rotonda della Besana Milan
A serene 18th-century former cemetery transformed into a tranquil park with a striking circular portico and church.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blooming flowers, pleasant weather
Rotonda della Besana Milan
Best Time
Blooming flowers, pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 18th-century former cemetery transformed into a tranquil park with a striking circular portico and church.
"A beautiful, peaceful escape with stunning architecture in the heart of Milan."
Pack a picnic 🧺
Enjoy a leisurely lunch on the central lawn. Perfect for a budget-friendly and relaxing experience.
Visit during events 🎉
Check for local events or markets held here; they add a vibrant atmosphere to the historic site.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Circular Portico
Outer walkway
An iconic 18th-century architectural feature, offering a unique shaded promenade and stunning views of the central church.
San Michele Arcangelo Church
Center of the Rotonda
The elegant 18th-century church at the heart of the complex, a masterpiece of neoclassical design.

The Central Lawn
Interior of the portico
A lush green space perfect for relaxing, picnicking, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Planning Your Visit
A Peaceful Urban Oasis
History and Architecture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack a picnic 🧺
Enjoy a leisurely lunch on the central lawn. Perfect for a budget-friendly and relaxing experience.
Visit during events 🎉
Check for local events or markets held here; they add a vibrant atmosphere to the historic site.
Wear comfy shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll want to stroll the entire portico and grounds, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Capture the architecture :camera_with_flash:
The symmetry of the portico and the church make for stunning photographic opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack a picnic 🧺
Enjoy a leisurely lunch on the central lawn. Perfect for a budget-friendly and relaxing experience.
Visit during events 🎉
Check for local events or markets held here; they add a vibrant atmosphere to the historic site.
Wear comfy shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll want to stroll the entire portico and grounds, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Capture the architecture :camera_with_flash:
The symmetry of the portico and the church make for stunning photographic opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Rotonda della Besana for its unique historical architecture and its role as a peaceful urban oasis. It's appreciated as a tranquil spot for relaxation and a beautiful example of neoclassical design. Some visitors note that it can be quiet, which is a positive for those seeking serenity but might be less engaging for those looking for more active attractions.
"The vibe here was fun and relaxing. There were families with children playing, live music, a group meditating. I felt safe here."
MrsWayfarer
"This is a quiet little spot in the downtown area of Milan. It is a nice place to relax and catch up with friends. Despite its central location, the place is rarely busy. There is a nice cafe/restuarant and a museum"
E K
"Little disappointed in this place as it seems not as well maintained as it could be. There are chairs inside for what looks like a cafe, but no one was there. The architecture is quite nice and it's free to walk around. At least no graffiti or garbage. Unique being located right in the middle of the city."
Paul Heller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Rotonda della Besana is easily accessible by public transport. You can take the tram lines 12 or 27 to the 'Via Besana' stop, or the metro to Porta Romana (Line 3) and enjoy a short walk. It's also a pleasant walk from the city center if you're exploring on foot.
Parking in this area of Milan can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation or a taxi. If you must drive, look for paid parking garages in the vicinity, though they can fill up quickly.
Yes, it's a feasible walk from the Duomo, taking approximately 25-30 minutes. It's a great way to see more of Milan's streets and architecture along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Rotonda della Besana park and its grounds is free. You can wander through the portico and relax on the lawn without any admission fee.
The park is generally open from early morning until late evening. The church may have specific visiting hours, so it's best to check locally if you wish to enter it.
The San Michele Arcangelo church is usually open to visitors, but its hours can vary. It's advisable to check for any specific service times or closures before planning your visit to the interior.
📸 📸 Photography
The circular portico offers incredible symmetry and leading lines, perfect for architectural shots. The central lawn with the church as a backdrop is also a classic view. Try capturing the light filtering through the arches.
Photography rules inside churches can vary. It's generally respectful to avoid flash photography and to check for any posted signs or ask church officials if you're unsure.
Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' provides beautiful soft light that enhances the architecture. Morning light can also be lovely, especially for capturing the tranquility of the space before it gets busy.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a peaceful walk around the historic portico, relax on the central lawn, admire the San Michele Arcangelo church, and soak in the unique atmosphere. It's a great spot for a quiet break from sightseeing.
Yes, families can enjoy the open green space for children to play. It's a safe and pleasant environment for a relaxed outing, though there are no specific playgrounds.
While there aren't dining facilities directly within the Rotonda itself, the surrounding Porta Romana neighborhood offers numerous cafes, trattorias, and restaurants for a meal or a coffee break.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Over time, the cemetery fell into disuse and was eventually deconsecrated. In the 20th century, a significant restoration project transformed the space into the public park and cultural venue it is today. The central church, San Michele Arcangelo, remains a focal point, showcasing neoclassical architecture. The Rotonda now serves as a tranquil green lung in the heart of Milan, a testament to its evolving history and urban adaptation.
Architectural Significance
The San Michele Arcangelo church at the center is a masterpiece of symmetry and proportion, characteristic of Piermarini's style. The interplay of light and shadow within the portico, especially during different times of the day, adds to its aesthetic appeal. For architecture enthusiasts, the Rotonda offers a fascinating study in historical urban planning and design, blending monumental scale with a sense of public accessibility.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit