Antique Furniture & Wooden Sculpture Museum

Antique Furniture & Wooden Sculpture Museum Milan: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Situated inside Milan’s remarkable Castello Sforzesco, the Antique Furniture & Wooden Sculpture Museum (Museo delle Arti Decorative) is a premier destination for anyone interested in the city’s rich legacy of artistic craftsmanship. This museum offers a sweeping journey from the early Christian era to the 20th century, with each gallery revealing the evolution of furniture design and woodcarving mastery in Milan and Lombardy. Whether you are a history enthusiast, art lover, or a traveler passionate about Milan’s cultural heritage, this guide delivers all the essential information—visiting hours, ticket options, collection highlights, and practical travel advice—to ensure a rewarding museum experience (Castello Sforzesco history; Museo per Tutti).

Historical Background and Significance
Museum Layout & Collections
Notable Artworks & Highlights
Practical Visitor Information
Nearby Attractions & Integration with Milan’s Culture
Visitor Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Sources

Historical Background and Significance

The Castle and the Origins of the Museum

Castello Sforzesco, an emblem of Milanese history, was built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza. Over centuries, it has transitioned from a military fortress into a thriving cultural complex. The museum, established in the early 20th century, is part of this castle’s transformation and is dedicated to preserving Milan’s decorative arts and woodcarving traditions (Museo delle Arti Decorative).

Collection Growth and Development

The core collection began with the purchase of the Mora family’s cabinetmaking collection in 1908, eventually enriched by donations from Milanese families and acquisitions from royal Savoy residences. Today, the museum’s holdings span medieval chests, Renaissance cassoni, Baroque cabinets, and innovative 20th-century furniture (Artsupp).

Museum Layout & Collections

Location within Castello Sforzesco

The museum is located on the first floor of the Ducal Courtyard, accessible via the main staircase near the Museum of Ancient Art. Its galleries are arranged chronologically, allowing visitors to follow the stylistic and technical development of Italian furniture and wood sculpture (Museo per Tutti).

Spatial Organization

The layout enhances the visitor experience through spacious, well-lit galleries and clear bilingual signage. Recent renovations, led by Perry King and Santiago Miranda, have modernized the display and introduced contemporary design elements, improving accessibility and navigation (Artsupp).

Collection Overview

Medieval & Renaissance: Rare 14th- and 15th-century furniture, including the reconstructed Chamber of Griselda from Roccabianca Castle, featuring original frescoes and woodwork (Wikipedia).
Baroque & Rococo: Lavish cabinets, altarpieces, and marquetry by Giuseppe Maggiolini.
19th & 20th Century: Avant-garde pieces by Alberto Issel, Carlo Bugatti, and Ettore Sottsass.
Contemporary Design: Modern works acquired after the 2004 renovation.
Wooden Sculpture: Lombard religious statuary, polychrome altarpieces, and decorative panels.
Decorative Arts: Pottery (notably a Gio Ponti tea set), textiles, and aristocratic family pieces.

Notable Artworks & Highlights

Chamber of Griselda: Faithful reconstruction of a 15th-century noble room.
Maggiolini Cabinets: Exemplars of neoclassical marquetry.
Bugatti and Sottsass Furniture: Icons of modern Italian design.
Gio Ponti Tea Set: A highlight of 20th-century decorative arts.
Peacock Stained Glass Window: The “Vetrata dei pavoni” by Lindo and Alessandro Grassi.

Practical Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Open: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM)
Closed: Mondays and select public holidays
Courtyard: Open daily 7:00 AM – 7:30 PM (Museo delle Arti Decorative – Orari)

Tickets & Admission

Standard ticket: €10 (as of June 2025)
Reduced ticket: €8 (students, seniors, groups)
Free: Children under 18, Milan residents, EU teachers
Where to buy: Online or at the castle entrance (Museo delle Arti Decorative tickets)

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible with elevators and step-free entrances
Accessible restrooms and wheelchairs available
Tactile guides and Braille materials for visitors with visual impairments
Staff assistance upon request (Museo per Tutti)

Guided Tours & Audio Guides

Regular guided tours in Italian and English (advance booking recommended)
Audio guides available for a small fee

Visitor Facilities

Cloakroom, restrooms, museum shop, and nearby cafes
Shaded castle courtyards ideal for breaks

Photography Policy

Non-flash photography is permitted except in some temporary exhibits. Always check signage or ask staff.

Nearby Attractions & Integration with Milan’s Culture

Explore the full Sforza Castle museum complex: Museum of Ancient Art, Museum of Musical Instruments, Pinacoteca, Egyptian Museum, and more (milantips.com). The adjacent Parco Sempione and the nearby Brera district offer further opportunities for art, shopping, and relaxation.

City passes and combination tickets are available for added savings (Best Museums in Milan).

Visitor Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for a Great Visit

Arrive early on weekdays for a quieter experience.
Allow 1.5–2 hours for your visit; more if you plan to see other museums.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on stone floors.
Families can enjoy interactive displays and workshops, especially during holidays.

FAQs

Q: What are the museum’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM–5:30 PM; closed Mondays.

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: €10 for adults, with discounts and free entry for certain groups.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, bookable in advance in Italian and English.

Q: Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with elevators, step-free access, and support services.

Q: Can I take photos inside the museum?
A: Non-flash photography is allowed except in some temporary exhibits.

Q: Where is the nearest public transport?
A: Cairoli Castello metro station (Line 1) is a short walk from the entrance.

Q: What are the best times to visit?
A: Weekday mornings are typically less busy.

Conclusion

The Antique Furniture & Wooden Sculpture Museum at Castello Sforzesco is a must-see for anyone wishing to discover Milan’s decorative arts heritage. With its exceptional collection, accessible facilities, and integration within a historic castle, it offers a rewarding experience for all ages and interests. Plan ahead by checking updated visiting hours and ticket options, and enrich your visit with guided tours or special events. For real-time updates, exclusive tours, and multimedia guides, download the Audiala app and follow the museum’s social media channels. Make the most of your Milan adventure by including this outstanding museum in your itinerary.