Plaque To Mario Luperini

Plaque to Mario Luperini: Milan Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Milan, long recognized as Italy’s “capital of the Resistance,” is a city shaped by its pivotal role during World War II and the anti-fascist movement. Among the many memorials that keep the memory of this turbulent era alive, the Plaque to Mario Luperini stands out as a symbol of personal sacrifice and collective struggle. Situated at Via Giuseppe Colombo 64, in the heart of Milan’s university district, this modest monument pays tribute to Mario Luperini, a young partisan whose courage and ultimate sacrifice encapsulate the spirit of Milan’s fight for liberation (Pietre della Memoria; Liberation Route; Comune di Milano).

This guide offers a detailed exploration of the plaque’s historical context, its significance within Milan’s tradition of “places of memory,” essential visitor information (including hours, accessibility, and nearby attractions), and practical advice for making the most of your visit. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a student, or a traveler, engaging with the story of Mario Luperini enriches your understanding of Milan’s enduring commitment to freedom and democracy (Italia.it – Milan History; YesMilano).

Historical Background: Mario Luperini and the Plaque

Mario Luperini, born in Milan on September 20, 1920, joined the Italian Resistance following the Nazi occupation and the fall of Mussolini’s regime in 1943. As a partisan, he participated in the struggle against fascism, risking his life for the cause of liberty and justice. Luperini was eventually arrested and deported to the Mauthausen concentration camp, where he died on March 19, 1945. The plaque at Via Giuseppe Colombo 64 immortalizes his sacrifice with the inscription:
“ASSERTORE DI GIUSTIZIA, CAMPIONE DELLA LIBERTA’, FU TEMERARIO NELLA LOTTA, SERAFICO NELL’OLOCAUSTO”
(“Advocate of Justice, Champion of Liberty, Daring in the Struggle, Serene in Sacrifice”) (Pietre della Memoria).

This plaque is just one of many in Milan, but it represents the countless young people who joined the Resistance and paid the ultimate price for Italy’s liberation (History of Milan – Wikipedia; Introducing Milan – History).

Milan’s Tradition of Commemorative Plaques

Milan is home to hundreds of “lapidi,” or commemorative plaques, that mark sites where Resistance members lived, worked, or were killed. Maintained by local authorities and historical associations, these memorials offer brief but powerful accounts of individual and collective heroism (History of Milan – Wikipedia). The Mario Luperini plaque, with its simple rosé marble and black enamel lettering, fits seamlessly into this tradition, inviting passersby to pause and reflect on the city’s turbulent past.

The Context of Milan During the Resistance

During World War II, Milan was both a target for Allied bombing and a stronghold of the Resistance. The city’s factories, universities, and neighborhoods became centers of anti-fascist activity and clandestine operations. The National Liberation Committee for Northern Italy (CLNAI) coordinated much of the local resistance, culminating in the city’s liberation on April 25, 1945—a date still celebrated as Italy’s Liberation Day (Liberation Route; Comune di Milano).

Significance of the Plaque’s Location

Located at Via Giuseppe Colombo 64, the Mario Luperini plaque is positioned in a historically significant part of Milan and serves as a touchstone for the city’s collective memory. Its placement in the university district underscores the role of students and young intellectuals in the Resistance (Italia.it – Milan History).

Visiting the Plaque: Practical Information

Location: Via Giuseppe Colombo 64, university district, Milan.
Visiting Hours: The plaque is outdoors and accessible 24/7.
Tickets: Free; no reservation or ticket required.
Accessibility: The monument is at street level and suitable for visitors with mobility challenges. Milan’s public transport—metro, tram, and bus—makes it easy to reach the area (Motion4Rent).
Nearby Attractions: Shoah Memorial at Milan Central Station, Museo del Risorgimento, and other Resistance sites (Dark Tourism – Shoah Memorial).

Getting There

Milan’s efficient public transport system, including metro lines, trams, and buses, connects the city center and university area. For those unfamiliar with the city, the YesMilano Info Point at Piazza Duomo 14 provides maps and personalized directions.

Guided Tours

Several local organizations and city guides include the Mario Luperini plaque in broader walking tours focused on Milan’s WWII and Resistance history. For detailed narratives and expert insights, consider booking a tour via ConfGuide-GITEC or using the YesMilano City Pass app for audio guides.

Cultural and Educational Impact

The Mario Luperini plaque is not just a memorial but an educational tool. Milanese schools regularly include visits to such sites as part of their civic education programs. Annual ceremonies—especially on April 25th—draw community members, students, and representatives of the National Association of Italian Partisans (ANPI) to honor the memory of those who fought for freedom (ANPI Milano).

These plaques anchor the collective memory of the Resistance, reinforcing Milan’s civic identity and its ongoing commitment to democratic values.

Visitor Experience and Interpretation

While the plaque itself is modest, its impact is profound. Visitors are encouraged to pause and reflect on the inscription and the story it tells. The plaque is best experienced as part of a larger exploration of Milan’s “places of memory,” which include the Shoah Memorial, Museo del Risorgimento, and numerous other commemorative sites (Pietre della Memoria).

Photography is allowed, but visitors should be respectful—especially if local residents or university activities are ongoing.

Preservation and Contemporary Relevance

Milan’s municipality, together with historical associations, is committed to maintaining the legibility and presence of its commemorative plaques. These sites stimulate ongoing public dialogue about justice, civic duty, and the dangers of intolerance. The Mario Luperini plaque is a bridge not just to the past, but to the values that underpin contemporary Italian society.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where is the Mario Luperini plaque located?
At Via Giuseppe Colombo 64, in Milan’s university district.

Are there specific visiting hours or an entrance fee?
The plaque is outdoors and accessible at all times; there is no fee or ticket required.

Is the site accessible for visitors with mobility challenges?
Yes, it is at street level and the area is generally wheelchair-friendly.

Which historical sites are nearby?
The Shoah Memorial at Milan Central Station and Museo del Risorgimento are within easy reach.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, Resistance-themed walking tours often include the plaque; inquire with local tour operators or use the YesMilano app.

Plan Your Visit: Practical Tips

Weather: Milan has a humid subtropical climate; check the forecast and dress appropriately.
Transport: Use public transport to reach the area and avoid driving in restricted zones.
Amenities: Cafes, restrooms, and shops are nearby. Drinkable water is available from city fountains.
Safety: Milan is generally safe, but keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
Events: Consider visiting on April 25th for Liberation Day commemorations.

Download the YesMilano City Pass app for audio guides and up-to-date info on Milan’s historical sites.

Summary and Recommendations

The Plaque to Mario Luperini is a poignant testament to Milan’s legacy of resistance, justice, and democratic values. Modest yet powerful, it honors one young man’s sacrifice and anchors the broader collective memory of the Italian Resistance. Its accessible location, proximity to other historical sites, and integration into Milan’s urban landscape make it a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand the city’s modern identity.

To enrich your visit, make use of official resources like the YesMilano Info Point, join a guided tour, or explore Milan’s many other “places of memory.” Attending commemorative events, especially on Liberation Day, offers a deeper connection to the ongoing significance of these sites.

Ultimately, visiting the Mario Luperini plaque is more than an act of remembrance—it’s an invitation to reflect on the values of freedom, justice, and civic responsibility that continue to shape Milan and Italy today.