Historic black and white photo of the five days of Milan uprising in 1848

Museum Of The Risorgimento

Museum of the Risorgimento Milan: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Museum of the Risorgimento in Milan is a cornerstone of Italian cultural heritage, chronicling the nation’s 19th-century journey to unification. Housed in the stately 18th-century Palazzo Moriggia—designed by Giuseppe Piermarini and nestled in Milan’s storied Brera district—the museum offers an immersive overview of the Risorgimento period. Visitors are guided through the pivotal moments, figures, and artifacts that shaped Italy’s transformation from a patchwork of independent states into a unified nation by 1871. The museum’s engaging exhibits, accessible facilities, and central location make it a must-see for history enthusiasts, scholars, families, and those exploring Milan’s rich tapestry of historical sites.

For up-to-date visiting hours, tickets, and special event information, consult the official Comune di Milano website or the YesMilano tourism portal.

Portrait of Anita Garibaldi painted by Gaetano Gallino in 1845 in Montevideo

Lithograph of Tito Speri, Augusto Fattori, painter Giuseppe Boldini, Angelo Giacomelli, Antonio Lazzati, and Francesco Montanari imprisoned in Mantova in 1853

Boarding of Thousand at Quarto on May 5, 1860, historic painting

King Carlo Alberto of Sardinia speaking from the balcony in Milan after the 1848 retreat during the First Italian Independence War

Painting depicting the massacre of Tavani during the Italian unification

Historical scene from the Five Days of Milan in 1848 showing armed citizens and conflict

Portrait of a man with long dark hair and beard, wearing a dark coat and white shirt

Victor Emmanuel II entering Venice on November 7, 1866, historical painting by Gerolamo Induno

Giuseppe Garibaldi stands down in Capua October 1860 by Girolamo Induno

Giuseppe Garibaldi visiting Alessandro Manzoni on 15 March 1862 painting by Alessandro Manzoni

Black and white portrait of Pietro Borsieri, an Italian cyclist

Portrait of Gian Domenico Romagnosi by E. Moscatelli, copy of Giuseppe Molteni's painting

Historical camp at the gates of Milan in 1859

Introduction
History of the Museum and Risorgimento Movement
Exhibitions and Collections
- Highlights and Thematic Pathways
- Library, Archive, and Research Resources
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Accessibility and Visitor Tips
Museum Layout, Must-See Exhibits, and Services
Family and Group Visits, Guided Tours, and Educational Initiatives
Nearby Attractions and Amenities
FAQs
Conclusion and Recommendations
Sources

History of the Museum and Risorgimento Movement

The Risorgimento—meaning “Resurgence”—refers to the political, cultural, and social movement that led to Italian unification. Milan was a central figure in this movement, most notably during the 1848 “Cinque Giornate di Milano” (Five Days of Milan), a major uprising against Austrian rule (The Collector). The museum, founded in the late 19th century, was established to safeguard and present the material history of this transformative era.

Palazzo Moriggia, which houses the museum, is itself a historical artifact, combining neoclassical elegance with the romantic spirit of the period. The museum’s collections are displayed chronologically, offering context from Enlightenment thought and Napoleonic reforms through the wars of independence, culminating in the unification of Italy and its aftermath.

Exhibitions and Collections

Highlights and Thematic Pathways

Spanning 16 exhibition rooms, the museum’s permanent collection provides a comprehensive narrative of the Risorgimento (Museu.ms). Key artifacts include:

Napoleon’s Green-and-Silver Cloak and Regal Insignia – Symbolizing his influence on Milan and the broader Italian unification (Napoleon.org).
Banner of the Lombard Legion Hunters – The first Italian Tricolore flag, representing emerging national identity (Wikipedia).
Personal Items of Key Figures – Uniforms, weapons, and memorabilia of Giuseppe Garibaldi and King Victor Emmanuel II (WhichMuseum).
Paintings and Sculptures – Works by Baldassare Verazzi and Francesco Hayez, including depictions of the Five Days of Milan.
Letters, Posters, and Documents – Illuminating the ideological and social currents of the 19th century.

Thematic rooms guide visitors through:

The Napoleonic era and pre-Risorgimento context
The revolutionary years of 1848 and the Five Days of Milan
The wars for independence and the proclamation of the Kingdom of Italy
The legacy of unification into the 20th century

Library, Archive, and Research Resources

The museum houses a specialized library and archive with over 120,000 volumes, offering resources for scholars and the general public by appointment. These collections support ongoing research and educational programs.

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Museum Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–17:30 (last entry at 17:00). Closed Mondays and some public holidays.
Library and Archive: Monday to Friday, 9:30–16:30 (appointment required).
Admission: Permanent collections are free. Temporary exhibitions and special events may require a ticket. Discounts and free entry are offered for children under 18, persons with disabilities, and seniors (Comune di Milano, Artsupp).
Booking: Advance booking is recommended for groups, guided tours, and temporary exhibitions.

Accessibility and Visitor Tips

The museum is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, adapted restrooms, and tactile tours for visually impaired visitors. To optimize your visit:

Use public transportation (Metro Lanza MM2 or Montenapoleone MM3, Tram 1, Buses 61 and 94).
Arrive during weekday mornings to avoid crowds.
Check the official website for schedules, special events, or unexpected closures.
Note: Parking is limited in the Brera district; public transit is recommended.

Museum Layout, Must-See Exhibits, and Services

Exhibitions are organized chronologically with bilingual Italian–English signage. Interactive displays, digital guides (via QR codes), and multimedia panels enrich the experience.

Must-See Exhibits

Garibaldi’s red shirt and personal effects
The Lombard Legion banner
Paintings and busts of leading figures such as Cavour, Garibaldi, and King Victor Emmanuel II
Romantic Garden and grand staircase—prime photographic locations

Services

Cloakroom: Lockers available for a refundable €1 (BresciaMusei)
Bookshop: Books on Italian history, souvenirs, and educational materials
Refreshments: Vending machines and a lounge area
Free Wi-Fi: Throughout the museum

Family and Group Visits, Guided Tours, and Educational Initiatives

Family-Friendly: Interactive displays and educational resources for children
School and Group Visits: Multilingual guided tours, workshops, and special rates are available with advance booking
Educational Programming: Regular workshops, lectures, and temporary exhibitions keep the museum dynamic and relevant

Nearby Attractions and Amenities

The museum’s location in Brera makes it ideal for combining with other Milanese cultural sites:

Brera Art Gallery (Pinacoteca di Brera): Italian Renaissance masterpieces
Teatro alla Scala: Iconic opera house
Brera Botanical Garden: Peaceful green space
Sforza Castle, La Scala Opera House, and Milan’s fashion district: All within walking distance

Numerous cafés, restaurants, and shops are nearby, making it easy to plan a full day in Milan’s cultural heart.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Museum’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:30 (last entry 17:00). Closed Mondays.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Entry to permanent collections is free; some temporary exhibitions may require a ticket.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in multiple languages by advance booking. Educational workshops are offered regularly.

Q: Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Fully accessible with tactile tours and adapted facilities.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Non-flash photography is permitted for personal use; professional equipment requires authorization.

Q: How do I reach the museum?
A: Take Metro MM2 (Lanza) or MM3 (Montenapoleone), Tram 1, or Buses 61 and 94.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The Museum of the Risorgimento Milan stands as a vibrant center for learning and reflection, connecting visitors with the ideals and struggles that forged modern Italy. With its rich, chronologically arranged collections, engaging temporary exhibitions, and inclusive visitor services, it is a vital stop on any Milan itinerary. For the best experience, plan your visit during off-peak hours, utilize public transport, and take advantage of digital resources like the Audiala app for guided tours. Stay updated on special events by following the museum’s official channels and checking the Comune di Milano and YesMilano websites.

Whether you are delving into archives, exploring iconic artifacts like Garibaldi’s red shirt, or enjoying the tranquil Romantic Garden, the museum offers a profound journey into the heart of Italian history.