Domus Aurea Milan
The house of the Emperor
Vladislav from Milan
Not far from the Sforzesco Castle, there's an outdoor archaeological site, freely open, where you can touch the old history of the city with your own hands. Milan is well known as one of the most powerful cities in Italy during the Middle Ages, but actually, it had great importance for Europe even before.
In fact, during the Roman Empire, in the last years of the 3rd century, Mediolanum (that's the Latin name of the city) became the capital of the Western Roman Empire, and it lasted for a long time (from 286 AD to 402 AD). The emperor of that time, Massimianus, wanted a great "domus", or house of the emperor, in the city. At last, he built not only a great house but even a great circus in front of it, where he and other citizens of Milan could watch chariot racing.
If you go around the main archaeological site and look at the ground, you will even find spectacular mosaics that were originally parts of the residence which spanned 80.000 m2. Basically, most of the center of Milan was taken by this giant construction, and if you wander around you'll find in every little corner hidden pieces of it. Unfortunately in the X century, the new inhabitants of Milano, the Longobards, abandoned the palace, and today you'll find only the ruins of it. By the way, it's one of the coolest and most hidden spots in the city so make sure to check it out!
Milan Spotter Vladislav
About this spot
Via Brisa 7
- 247
€
free
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
✓ 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:
