Archivio Storico Lombardo journal cover from 1874

Archivio Di Stato Di Milano

Visiting Archivio di Stato di Milano: The Definitive Guide to Milan’s Historic State Archives

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction: Why Visit the Archivio di Stato di Milano?

Housed in the magnificent Baroque Palazzo del Senato in central Milan, the Archivio di Stato di Milano is much more than an archival repository—it is a vibrant cultural institution safeguarding over 1,300 years of Milanese and Italian history. Founded by Empress Maria Theresa of Austria in the late 18th century, the archive traces the political, social, and cultural evolution of Milan and the Lombardy region. Today, it stands as an essential destination for historians, genealogists, students, and travelers seeking to immerse themselves in Milan’s rich documentary legacy. (Archivio di Stato di Milano Official Site; Sistema Archivistico Nazionale (SAN); Antenati Portal)

Introduction
Historical Overview and Institutional Development
Collections and Archival Highlights
Visiting the Archivio di Stato di Milano: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility
Guided Tours, Events, and Educational Activities
Digital Resources and Online Access
Preservation and Modernization
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Recommendations
References and Official Links

1751 Catasto Teresiano map of Porta Nuova area highlighting San Giovanni Decollato church

Cadastral map of the Church of San Pietro alla Vigna from 1788

Emperor Charles V confirming Francesco Taverna as Grand Chancellor of the State of Milan with a diploma

Emperor Charles V granting noble titles and coat of arms to Francesco Taverna and his brothers Luigi and Giovanni Battista

Official diploma document attesting the presence of Peschiera Borromeo Castle

Historical letter written by Costanza to her sister Marietta

Drawing of the stone bridge over the Tanaro River from the first half of the 17th century during a dispute between mill owners

Historical criminal trial document of Gaetano Bresci from Milan Assize Court

Historical court proceeding against Gaetano Bresci in Milan circa 1900

Catasto Teresiano 1751 map showing Porta Nuova area with blue circle highlighting San Giovanni Decollato church

Relief of the noble Marco Antonio Carpano's house from 1634

Canal Naviglio Grande in Ticino region with historic buildings and boats

Historical Overview and Institutional Development

Origins and Early Growth

The Archivio di Stato di Milano was established in 1781, following a decree by Empress Maria Theresa of Austria that centralized Milan’s state archives. Initially located in the former Jesuit convent of San Fedele, the archive unified documents from ecclesiastical and governmental institutions, mirroring Enlightenment-era reforms. (cultura.gov.it)

Transition to Palazzo del Senato

As collections expanded in the 19th century, the archive moved to the Palazzo del Senato—an architectural jewel commissioned in 1608. This transition, overseen by directors Luigi Osio and Cesare Cantù, marked the institution’s maturation and provided the space needed to preserve its growing holdings. The palazzo itself is a testament to Milan’s Baroque heritage and urban history. (lombardiarchivi.servizirl.it)

Modernization and Expansion

Today, the archive houses approximately 50 kilometers of documents, including rare parchments, maps, and records from 721 CE to the present. Notable recent acquisitions include materials from the P2 Masonic Lodge, Gladio organization, and terrorism trials, reflecting the archive’s ongoing relevance in contemporary history. Ongoing renovations and digitalization projects ensure both preservation and public engagement.

Collections and Archival Highlights

The Archivio di Stato di Milano’s holdings reflect the city’s multifaceted past. Key collections include:

Medieval and Diplomatic Documents: Such as the Cartola de accepto mundio (721 CE), Italy’s oldest preserved parchment.
Renaissance Correspondence: Carteggio Visconteo Sforzesco and Registri Ducali reveal the courtly and political life of Milan under the Visconti and Sforza dynasties.
Notarial and Legal Archives: Over 64,000 notarial units, crucial for genealogical and legal research.
Cadastral and Cartographic Collections: The Catasto Teresiano (18th century) and Miscellanea Mappe e Disegni document Milan’s urban and rural evolution.
Special Holdings: Illuminated manuscripts, a 6th-century Ravenna papyrus, autographs by Napoleon Bonaparte, and a blood-written letter by Silvio Pellico.
Modern and Contemporary Fonds: Including documents on Milan’s 20th-century history, terrorism, and institutional reforms. (lombardiarchivi.servizirl.it)

Visiting the Archivio di Stato di Milano: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility

Location

Address: Via Senato 10, 20121 Milan
Transport: Easily accessible by metro (Line 1—Duomo/Cairoli), tram, and bus. Walking distance from the Duomo and the Brera district.

Opening Hours

Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM (some sources report 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; verify on the official website)
Closed on weekends and public holidays
Hours may vary for special events or renovations; always confirm before visiting.

Admission

Free entry to reading rooms and most exhibitions.
Special events and group tours may require advance booking or registration.

Accessibility

The facility is wheelchair accessible and offers support services for visitors with disabilities.

Facilities

Media library, restoration laboratory, and coworking spaces.
Visitor amenities include a newly added restaurant and comfortable reading/study areas. (milano.repubblica.it)

Guided Tours, Events, and Educational Activities

The archive regularly offers:

Guided tours of its historic spaces and collections (advance booking recommended, especially for groups).
Workshops and educational programs in archival science, paleography, and diplomatics.
Temporary exhibitions showcasing rare documents and thematic displays.
Biennial archival school for advanced studies.

Check the events calendar on the official website for up-to-date information.

Digital Resources and Online Access

The Archivio di Stato di Milano is at the forefront of archival digitalization:

Sistema Archivistico Nazionale (SAN): National catalogues and inventories. (SAN)
Portale Antenati: Digitized civil status and military records, invaluable for genealogy research. (Antenati Portal)
SIAS: Comprehensive online catalogues of holdings. (SIAS)

Preservation and Modernization

Despite losses during World War II, the archive is committed to ongoing conservation, restoration, and digitization. Recent public-private partnership models and government support are ensuring its long-term sustainability and relevance, with initiatives to open up the archive as a broader cultural hub. (Corriere della Sera; ANSA)

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Nearby Milanese Landmarks

Duomo di Milano
Sforza Castle
Brera district
Galleria d’Arte Moderna
Bagatti Valsecchi Museum

Visitor Tips

Bring photo ID for registration.
Photography is often restricted; always check at the entrance.
For research or document consultation, prepare using online catalogues and consider contacting staff in advance.
Visit early for a quieter experience, especially during busy periods like Milan Fashion Week or Salone del Mobile.
The archive is surrounded by cafes and restaurants, offering spots to relax between visits to cultural sites.

(timeout.com; mapcarta.com)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Typically Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM; some services may extend to 5:00 PM. Confirm on the official website.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, entry to reading rooms and exhibitions is free. Special events may require registration.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, regularly offered; booking is recommended for groups.

Q: Is the archive accessible to people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the building is fully accessible.

Q: Can I access archives online?
A: Yes, through the SAN, SIAS, and Antenati Portal.

Q: What documents are best for genealogical research?
A: Civil status (1866–1946) and military conscription records (1840–1948) are fully digitized and accessible online.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The Archivio di Stato di Milano is a cornerstone of Milanese and Italian heritage, blending centuries-old documentary treasures with modern visitor amenities and digital access. Its collections illuminate the evolution of Milan from a medieval power center to a modern metropolis. Whether you’re tracing your ancestry, researching history, or simply exploring Milan’s cultural sites, the archive offers an engaging, educational experience.

Before your visit, check the latest updates, events, and digital resources on the official website, and consider exploring online collections via the Antenati Portal.