Wow Spazio Fumetto

WOW Spazio Fumetto Milan: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Visitor Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

WOW Spazio Fumetto, officially known as the Museo del Fumetto, dell’Illustrazione e dell’Immagine Animata, is Milan’s foremost museum devoted to comics, illustration, and animated imagery—commonly referred to as the “ninth art.” Located at Viale Campania 12, in a repurposed Motta confectionery factory, the museum has become a pivotal institution for enthusiasts of Italian and international comics. Since its opening in 2011, WOW Spazio Fumetto has offered immersive exhibitions, extensive archives, and vibrant educational programs that celebrate Milan’s rich comics legacy and its ongoing influence on global pop culture. The museum is also recognized for its robust engagement with the local community, making it an essential stop for both tourists and locals interested in the city’s creative spirit.

However, as of mid-2025, the museum faces significant challenges including a temporary closure due to lease and financial issues. Despite this, the Fondazione Franco Fossati continues to maintain WOW Spazio Fumetto’s mission through digital initiatives and community events. Visitors are encouraged to check the official website for the most current updates on reopening and activities (WOW Spazio Fumetto Milan Visitor Guide 2025, Cool in Milan, Il Giorno).

Introduction
History and Cultural Significance
Collections and Exhibitions
- Permanent Collection
- Temporary Exhibitions
Educational Programs and Public Engagement
Visitor Information
Facilities and Amenities
Community Response and Current Challenges
Future Prospects
FAQs
References

History and Cultural Significance

Founded by the Fondazione Franco Fossati, WOW Spazio Fumetto opened its doors on April 1, 2011. The museum is housed in a historic structure that once served as part of Milan’s Motta confectionery factory, adjacent to the Giardino Oreste Del Buono. This location symbolizes Milan’s transformation from an industrial powerhouse to a contemporary cultural hub.

Milan is widely regarded as the capital of Italian comics, home to major publishers such as Disney Italia, Panini, Sergio Bonelli Editore, and Astorina. WOW Spazio Fumetto not only preserves this legacy but also explores the intersections between comics and other artistic disciplines, including animation, cinema, television, and literature. Over the years, the museum has hosted more than 200 exhibitions and 1,000 events, celebrating both classic characters like Topolino (Mickey Mouse) and showcasing the evolution of Italian and international comic artistry.

Collections and Exhibitions

Permanent Collection

The museum’s permanent collection features original comic strips, storyboards, sketches, and rare publications from iconic Italian artists such as Hugo Pratt (Corto Maltese), Guido Crepax (Valentina), and Milo Manara. International favorites like Donald Duck (Paperino) and the Smurfs (i Puffi) are also highlighted, underlining Milan’s significance in the global comics scene.

The archives include vintage magazines like “Corriere dei Piccoli” and “Il Giornalino,” cinema posters, animation cels, and memorabilia, offering a comprehensive view of the cross-media influence of comics in Italy. A unique thematic focus is Milan itself, depicted both as a setting and a protagonist in numerous works, offering a visual chronicle of the city’s transformation (Cool in Milan).

Temporary Exhibitions

Recent notable exhibitions include “Fumetto, un miracolo a Milano” (2024–2025), which celebrates over a century of comics inspired by Milan. Curated by Luigi F. Bona, Luca Bertuzzi, and Gian Luca Margheriti, this major exhibit features original panels, historical publications, cinematic memorabilia, and immersive scenography, including a special poster by Luca Salvagno. Past exhibitions have explored Disney comics in Italy, manga, Japanese animation, and superhero genres, often enhanced by interactive and multimedia installations.

Educational Programs and Public Engagement

WOW Spazio Fumetto is dedicated to fostering creativity and learning through a wide array of educational initiatives:

Workshops and Creative Labs: Covering comic drawing, storytelling, character design, animation, and comics history for all ages.
Guided Tours: Offering insights into the history and artistry of comics, with thematic itineraries such as “Milan in Comics.”
School Programs: Partnerships with local schools and universities for field trips, teacher training, and collaborative projects.
Public Events: Book launches, author signings, lectures, festivals, cosplay gatherings, and family days filled with creative activities.

Even during periods of closure, the foundation continues to run digital programs and summer workshops (Cool in Milan).

Visitor Information

Location and Accessibility

Address: Viale Campania 12, Milan
Public Transport: Accessible via Metro Line 1 (Porta Romana), various tram and bus routes, as well as taxi and bike-sharing services.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible with ramps, elevators, and adapted facilities for visitors with disabilities.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Please Note: As of June 15, 2025, the physical museum is temporarily closed due to lease and financial issues. Updates on reopening and events are provided on the museum’s official website.

When operational, the typical schedule and ticket information were:

Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 15:00–19:00; Saturday and Sunday, 14:00–19:00; Monday closed.
Admission: €8 for adults; reduced rates for students, seniors, and groups; children under 12 free. Workshops and special events may require separate fees (Cool in Milan).

Getting There

Metro: Line 1 (Porta Romana station)
Tram/Bus: Multiple lines serve Viale Campania
Parking: Limited street parking; public transport highly recommended, especially during events

Facilities and Amenities

Exhibition Spaces: Permanent and temporary displays of Italian and international comics, animation, and illustration.
Library: Over 8,000 volumes, including rare and out-of-print publications, accessible to researchers and the public.
Bookshop: Comics, art books, exclusive merchandise, and collectibles.
Café: A comfortable space for refreshments and socializing.
Event Spaces: For workshops, lectures, screenings, and private events.
Photography: Allowed in most areas except where restricted to protect original artworks.

Community Response and Current Challenges

Expiry of Municipal Convention and Financial Strain

The museum’s 14-year convention with the Comune di Milano expired on April 1, 2025, placing the institution at risk of eviction (Il Giorno, Fumettologica). Outstanding debts of €180,000, infrastructural issues, and the inability to secure a contract or access public grants have compounded the situation. Maintenance costs for the aging building, especially after water infiltration and flooding, have been largely borne by the museum (Milano Weekend).

Despite these challenges, local and international artists, fans, and the broader public have mobilized to support the museum, organizing campaigns and petitions to secure its future (Milano Weekend). The final day at the original location was marked by a community event, “Ultimo ballo con WOW” (Museo WOW).

Future Prospects

City officials have recognized WOW Spazio Fumetto’s cultural value but require formal contractual and financial compliance before considering a reopening or relocation (QuattroMilano). The prospect of cultural erosion is a real concern, but ongoing advocacy, community engagement, and the foundation’s digital programming provide hope for eventual revival (Urbanfile).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is WOW Spazio Fumetto currently open?
A: As of June 2025, the museum is temporarily closed. Check the official website for updates.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: When open, general admission is €8, with reductions for students, seniors, and free entry for children under 12.

Q: Is the museum accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and adapted facilities.

Q: Are guided tours and workshops available?
A: Yes, these are a core part of the museum’s programming; booking may be required.

Q: How can I support the museum?
A: Participate in petitions, fundraising campaigns, or follow and share updates through social media and the foundation’s website.

References

Final Thoughts

WOW Spazio Fumetto stands as a testament to Milan’s pioneering role in the world of comics, animation, and illustration. Despite recent setbacks, its legacy endures through digital outreach, community support, and ongoing advocacy. Whether you are a dedicated comic art fan or a cultural explorer, keep updated on reopening plans and support this unique institution as it navigates toward a hopeful future.