Ossario della Bicocca
A solemn pyramidal monument commemorating the fallen of the Battle of Novara, honoring both Italian and Austrian soldiers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Rare interior access
Ossario della Bicocca
Best Time
Rare interior access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn pyramidal monument commemorating the fallen of the Battle of Novara, honoring both Italian and Austrian soldiers.
"A striking monument steeped in history, even from the outside."
Exterior Views
Even when closed, the monument's grandeur is impressive from the outside. :camerawithflash:
Historical Significance
Learn about the Battle of Novara for a deeper appreciation. 📚
Quick Facts
Rating
4.3 · 109 reviews
Type
Tourist Attraction
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pyramidal Monument
A striking 16-meter tall pyramidal structure, a unique and imposing memorial.
Bronze Eagle & Cross
Admire the white marble cross and bronze eagle with crowns on the main facade.
Sculptural Triptych
Inside, a triptych by Carlo Cantoni features bronze effigies of key historical figures.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visit
Historical Context
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Exterior Views
Even when closed, the monument's grandeur is impressive from the outside. :camerawithflash:
Historical Significance
Learn about the Battle of Novara for a deeper appreciation. 📚
Peaceful Setting
The surrounding Parco della Battaglia offers a serene space for reflection. 🏞️
Tips
from all over the internet
Exterior Views
Even when closed, the monument's grandeur is impressive from the outside. :camerawithflash:
Historical Significance
Learn about the Battle of Novara for a deeper appreciation. 📚
Peaceful Setting
The surrounding Parco della Battaglia offers a serene space for reflection. 🏞️
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Ossario della Bicocca to be a historically significant and visually striking monument, particularly its unique pyramidal shape. While the limited interior access is a common point of disappointment, the exterior's grandeur and the solemnity of the surrounding park are widely appreciated as a place for reflection on Italian history.
"Top"
Filippo Marson
"R. I. P."
Eugenio Bertone
"The Bicocca Ossuary, located on Via XXIII Marzo 1849, is a colossal pyramidal structure that leaves a lasting impression. Erected in memory of the fallen in the Battle of Novara on March 23, 1849, this monument is steeped in history and charm.
The Battle of Novara, also known as the Battle of Bicocca, was a decisive battle during the Italian Risorgimento, in which Charles Albert's Piedmontese troops were defeated by Austrian forces led by Marshal Josef Radetzky. This event marked the end of the First Italian War of Independence.
The ossuary monument, inaugurated on March 23, 1879, was designed by Milanese architect Luigi Broggi. The pyramidal structure, with a 12-meter base and a height of 16 meters, is adorned on the main façade with a large white marble cross and a bronze eagle holding two crowns in its talons. Inside, the remains of fallen Italian and Austrian soldiers are preserved, their names engraved on the eight faces of half-howitzers.
In 1910, a triptych sculpted by Carlo Cantoni was placed inside, featuring bronze effigies of Carlo Alberto and Generals Ettore Perrone and Giuseppe Passalacqua, protagonists of that historic day. Also known as the "Sacrario Ossario dei Caduti," the monument was built between September 1878 and March 1879 thanks to funds raised by a national public subscription, with the land donated by Francesco Berra.
Unfortunately, the Ossuary is closed to the public and cannot be visited inside, which is a real shame given its historical interest. However, even just admiring it from the outside allows one to appreciate its majesty and the importance of its historical significance. The surrounding area, defined by the boundaries of the Parco della Battaglia, offers a peaceful and respectful setting to reflect on this piece of Italian history.
In conclusion, the Bicocca Ossuary is a place I recommend visiting, despite the restriction of not being able to go inside. Its grandeur and historical value make it a significant stop for anyone interested in the history of the Italian Risorgimento."
Ciro Magliulo
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ossario della Bicocca is located on Via XXIII Marzo 1849. Public transport options may vary, so checking local transit schedules is recommended. It's situated within the Parco della Battaglia, offering a peaceful approach.
Information on dedicated parking is scarce, but street parking might be available in the surrounding areas. It's advisable to check local parking regulations before arriving.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Unfortunately, the Ossuary is generally closed to the public. Interior access is typically limited to the anniversary of the battle, March 23rd. It's best to confirm any special opening dates in advance.
The exterior is always accessible. For interior visits, access is usually restricted to the anniversary of the battle (March 23rd). Check local listings for specific times on that day.
As the interior is rarely open, there's typically no admission fee. Viewing the monument from the outside is free of charge.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the impressive pyramidal monument from the outside, featuring a white marble cross and a bronze eagle. The surrounding Parco della Battaglia provides a respectful setting for reflection on the historical events.
Yes, the unique pyramidal shape and historical facade make it a compelling subject for photography. The surrounding park also offers scenic views. :camerawithflash:
It commemorates the fallen soldiers of the Battle of Novara (March 23, 1849), a key event in the Italian Risorgimento. It honors both Italian and Austrian soldiers, symbolizing reconciliation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Ossuary is located in a park area, so dining options directly on-site are unlikely. You'll likely need to travel to nearby towns or city centers for restaurants and cafes.
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