Church of San Maurizio Milan
Milan's Sistine Chapel
Whether you are an estimator of religious art or not, San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is a must-see in Milan.
Let me state the obvious: the Catholic Church has had a massive impact on Italian art and culture - to the point that almost every memorable historical site throughout Italy is churches, chapels or religious buildings, and everywhere you go there's something memorable to see, but this is something different.
It’s not uncommon to find churches that are divided into two sections, usually one for the noble and the clergy, and one for commoners, but there was a different kind of "division" here. In fact, from the early 16th century to the early 19th century, San Maurizio was the home of cloistered nuns, who could only pray in the back of the monastery. For no reason could they go outside: they were only able to talk to their parents or receive the holy communion through two very small hatch windows on given occasions.
Thanks to a huge restoration, San Maurizio returned to its original splendor in 2015. The vaults in the back are just gorgeous, and the frescos by Bernardino Luini depicting outdoor landscapes really make you wonder, especially now that we know what a lockdown really is about.
Some call San Maurizio, a church that even hosts classical music concerts, “Milan’s Sistine Chapel”: I often take visitors here on my walking tours as a Greeter and people agree, it truly is a monastery of astonishing beauty.
Our Milan City Guide
Find your way with 195 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved it? Join us!
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Milan
Frizzi & Lazzi
Your favorite beer garden ever
"Frizzi & Lazzi" is one of my old-time favorite beer gardens in Milan. It's an unassuming, easy-going place that has become a point of reference since '82.
by
Susanna
Baggio
Ofelé
My go-to place for Sunday brunch
"Ofelé" in Milan is a bistrot bakery that makes some of the best (Sunday) brunches around. It's simply one of my favorite pancake spots in town...
by
Carmen
Condeescu
Living Liqueurs & Delights
Fashion and aperitivo
"Living Liqueurs & Delights": one of my favorite aperitivo spots in Milan and its first real vodka bar. It has a beautiful bar ambiance & a nice lounge...
by
Ivan
Kalinov
DOU
Dim Sum paradise
"DOU" was the first (Asian) restauarant I bumped into in Milan, and it remains one of my favorites in the city. What I like is the selection of cuisines...
by
Ivan
Kalinov
Wasabi Bar
Williamsburg in Milan
"Wasabi Bar" is one of the greatest bars in Milan. Why? Because it's great! It's actually tiny, but don't be misled: the drink selection & design are...
by
Ivan
Kalinov
Via Solferino
Independent shopping
"Via Solferino" is a central Milan street, yet far away from the crowds. I go there to just look around the shop and I'm sure I can always find I...
by
Ivan
Kalinov
Al Fresco
A meeting place with food and dining
"Al Fresco" is my Milan cafe/restaurant I'd never visited because it was just next door to my place! Let me tell you, that was a mistake, if only for...
by
Ivan
Kalinov
Scalo Farini
Great aperitivo
"Scalo Farini" in Milan is a bar recommended to me by an Isola local as the best aperitivo in town. I can say that I haven't tried any better than this.
by
Ivan
Kalinov
QC Terme Milano
Total relax in the city
"QC Terme Milano" is the place for you if you're just a bit tired. Honestly, I wouldn't have expected to find a spa like this in the city...
by
Ivan
Kalinov
Frida
Chilling in alternative & hip Isola
"Frida" Milan is one of the places that for me defines the spirit of Isola. It's a great bar with affordable drinks, a great terrace and cool people...
by
Ivan
Kalinov
Heading to Milan?
195 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Milan?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 195 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Milan
Get to know our other Spotters from Milan
As featured on:
