Rotonda della Besana, Milan - An old building in the center of Rome
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Rotonda della Besana Milan

4.4
·3k reviews·Milano, Italy

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming flowers, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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Rotonda della Besana, Milan - An old building in the center of Rome

Rotonda della Besana Milan

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming flowers, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.4
(3k reviews)

"A beautiful, peaceful escape with stunning architecture in the heart of Milan."

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Circular Portico

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

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

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

Discover the Rotonda della Besana, a serene green space in Milan. Originally a cemetery, it now offers a tranquil escape with its historic church and unique circular portico. Perfect for a quiet stroll or a moment of reflection amidst the city buzz.

History and Architecture

Explore the architectural marvel of the Rotonda della Besana. This 18th-century complex, designed by architect Giuseppe Piermarini, features a striking circular portico and a central church. It's a fascinating glimpse into Milan's past, offering a unique blend of history and public space.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Blooming flowers, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium

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

4.4
(3k reviews)

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

Peaceful atmosphere
Unique architecture
Historic charm

What People Dislike

Can be very quiet

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

The Rotonda della Besana offers a welcome patch of green for families visiting Milan. The spacious central lawn is perfect for children to run around and burn off energy, making it a great spot for a relaxed picnic. While there are no playgrounds, the open space and the unique circular architecture provide a safe and engaging environment for kids to explore. Parents can appreciate the tranquil atmosphere, offering a peaceful respite from the busy city streets.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers

For solo travelers or anyone seeking a moment of quiet contemplation, the Rotonda della Besana is an ideal destination. The serene atmosphere within the circular portico provides a sense of calm and detachment from the urban hustle. It's a perfect place to read a book, sketch, or simply sit and observe the surroundings. The historical significance of the site also adds a layer of depth to a solitary visit.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Rotonda della Besana, originally known as the Monumental Cemetery of the Ca' Granda, was conceived in the late 18th century by architect Giuseppe Piermarini, the same architect behind Milan's famous La Scala opera house. Its purpose was to provide a more dignified and organized burial ground for the city's growing population. The unique circular design, with its imposing portico, was intended to create a sense of order and solemnity.

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 Rotonda della Besana is a remarkable example of 18th-century neoclassical architecture in Milan. Its defining feature is the circular portico, a grand, colonnaded walkway that encloses a central courtyard. This design is not only visually striking but also creates a unique spatial experience, separating the bustling city from the serene interior.

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.

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