Museo Del Novecento

Museo del Novecento Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Milan Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Museo del Novecento (Museum of the Twentieth Century) is a cornerstone of Milan’s cultural landscape, offering an immersive journey into Italian art from the early 1900s to the present. Located in the heart of Milan at Piazza del Duomo, and housed within the striking Palazzo dell’Arengario, the museum combines a world-class art collection with innovative architecture and panoramic views of the city. Whether you are an art aficionado or a first-time visitor, this guide provides everything you need to plan your visit: from up-to-date Museo del Novecento visiting hours and ticketing details to collection highlights, accessibility, and nearby attractions. (YesMilano; Zumtobel)

Introduction
Historical Background
- Origins and Establishment
- Architectural and Urban Context
Collection Highlights
- Key Artists and Movements
- The Mattioli Collection
Architectural Features
Visitor Experience
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

Historical Background

Origins and Establishment

The Museo del Novecento was inaugurated in December 2010 as part of Milan’s commitment to promoting modern Italian art and making it accessible to the public. The museum is housed in the Palazzo dell’Arengario, an iconic rationalist structure designed in the 1930s by Griffini, Magistretti, Muzio, and Portaluppi. The building was originally intended for administrative and exhibition purposes, but its central location and monumental design made it ideal for adaptive reuse as a museum. The transformation of the Arengario into a museum was led by architect Italo Rota, who succeeded in blending historical preservation with contemporary design (YesMilano; Trip.com).

Architectural and Urban Context

Situated in Piazza del Duomo, next to the Milan Cathedral and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the museum enjoys a prime location at the heart of Milan’s historic center. The Palazzo dell’Arengario’s rationalist architecture and monumental arches create a powerful urban presence, establishing a dialogue with the adjacent Duomo and Royal Palace. The renovation by Rota and Fornasari introduced contemporary elements—such as panoramic terraces and a dramatic spiral staircase—while respecting the original structure (Zumtobel; Barceló Guide).

Collection Highlights

Key Artists and Movements

The Museo del Novecento houses more than 4,000 works, with a selection of approximately 400 on display at any time. The collection offers a chronological and thematic journey through major Italian and international movements, including:

Futurism: Featuring masterpieces by Umberto Boccioni, Giacomo Balla, and Gino Severini, the museum is recognized for its unparalleled Futurist holdings.
Metaphysical Art: Paintings by Giorgio de Chirico and Carlo Carrà.
Novecento Italiano: Works by Mario Sironi and others, reflecting a return to classical order.
Abstract Art and Spatialism: Including Lucio Fontana’s iconic “Struttura al Neon” and his “Spatial Concept” series.
Arte Povera and Conceptual Art: Later 20th-century works by Piero Manzoni, Enrico Castellani, and more.

International artists such as Braque, Kandinsky, Klee, Léger, Matisse, Mondrian, Picasso, Roy Lichtenstein, Robert Rauschenberg, Frank Stella, and Andy Warhol are also represented, especially in the contemporary collection (Museo del Novecento; Wikipedia).

The Mattioli Collection

A defining moment in the museum’s history was the arrival of the Mattioli Collection in 2022, considered the most important private collection of Italian Futurism and early 20th-century avant-garde art. The collection features works by Boccioni, Balla, Carrà, Morandi, and Modigliani, enhancing the museum’s stature as a global reference point for Futurist art (Finestre sull’Arte).

Architectural Features

The Palazzo dell’Arengario

The museum’s home, the Palazzo dell’Arengario, is a landmark of rationalist architecture. Its monumental façade, cube-shaped volumes, and round arches reflect the urban ambitions of the Fascist era and postwar Italy. The building’s central location and robust design allowed for a sensitive transformation into a museum space (Zumtobel).

Renovation by Italo Rota and Fabio Fornasari

The renovation (2007-2010) by Italo Rota and Fabio Fornasari introduced new spatial experiences while retaining the building’s historical character. The most distinctive features include:

Grand Spiral Staircase: A sculptural, open staircase that links all levels, offering changing perspectives of both the museum interior and the city. Its fluid design contrasts with the solid exterior and serves as the museum’s vertical axis (Barceló Guide; World Architecture).
Panoramic Terraces and Windows: Floor-to-ceiling glazing in exhibition spaces provides spectacular views of the Duomo and Milan’s skyline. The Lucio Fontana Room is especially notable for its immersive atmosphere and city vistas (Zumtobel).
Hanging Walkway: An open-air walkway connects the museum to the Royal Palace, facilitating visitor flow between two major cultural sites and offering unique views over Piazza del Duomo (Barceló Guide).

Lighting and Interior Design

The museum’s interior is designed to create a layered, immersive journey through 20th-century Italian art. State-of-the-art lighting enhances the artworks and establishes a contemplative, welcoming atmosphere. At night, Lucio Fontana’s neon installations turn the upper floors into a luminous landmark visible from the Piazza (Zumtobel).

Visitor Experience

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 – 19:30 (last entry at 18:30)
Thursday: Extended hours, 10:00 – 22:30 (last entry at 21:30)
Monday: Closed
Closed: December 25, January 1, May 1

Ticket Prices:

Standard: €10 (subject to change)
Reduced: €8 for EU citizens aged 18–25, students, and eligible groups
Free: Children under 18, visitors with disabilities and their carers, ICOM members, Milan residents (on the first Sunday of each month)
Tickets available online and at the museum; advance booking recommended for peak times (Comune di Milano; Everybody Hates a Tourist).

Accessibility and Facilities

Wheelchair Access: Elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms throughout the museum.
Cloakroom: Available for coats, bags, and umbrellas.
Bookshop: Art books, catalogues, and souvenirs.
Restaurant-Bar: Top-floor dining with a panoramic view of the Duomo.
Wi-Fi: Free access for visitors.
Guided Tours & Audio Guides: In Italian and English, bookable in advance or on-site.
Family-Friendly: Educational programs and workshops for children.

Navigating the Museum

Layout: Exhibitions are organized chronologically and thematically over several floors. Download a museum map or pick up a printed guide at the entrance.
Photography: Non-flash photography allowed in most areas; check for restrictions on temporary exhibitions.

Special Events and Guided Tours

Temporary Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts major international and Italian art exhibitions. Recent shows include retrospectives on Robert Rauschenberg (Museo del Novecento).
Events: Lectures, workshops, and cultural events for all ages.
Guided Tours: Enhance your visit with expert-led tours focusing on the collection, architecture, or special exhibitions.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings or late afternoons for fewer crowds; Thursday evenings for a quieter experience.
Getting There:
- Metro: Lines M1 (Red) and M3 (Yellow) to Duomo station (Comune di Milano).
- Tram: Multiple lines stop at Duomo.
- Bike Sharing: BikeMi stations nearby.
Other Attractions: Combine your visit with Milan Cathedral, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Teatro alla Scala, and the Brera Picture Gallery.
Dining: The Giacomo Arengario restaurant on the top floor offers meals with a stunning view.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Museo del Novecento visiting hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–19:30 (last entry 18:30); Thursday until 22:30 (last entry 21:30). Closed Mondays and select holidays.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online via the official website or at the museum. Advance booking is advised, especially during peak seasons.

Q: Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the entire museum is wheelchair accessible with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours and audio guides can be arranged in Italian and English.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Non-flash photography is generally allowed in permanent collections; restrictions may apply for temporary exhibitions.

Contact Information

Address: Piazza Duomo 8, 20123 Milan, Italy
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: +39 02 884 440 61
Official Website: Museo del Novecento

For ticketing or group bookings, use the Vivaticket form or contact the museum directly.

Conclusion

The Museo del Novecento stands as a testament to Milan’s enduring artistic innovation and architectural heritage. Its world-class collection, including the renowned Mattioli Collection, together with its breathtaking architectural features and prime central location, make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Milan’s historic and cultural treasures. Plan ahead using this guide to ensure a seamless and enriching visit. For more travel resources, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media for the latest updates and exclusive content.