Ancient Roman Milan

The greatest concentration of archaeological sites and landmarks of the ancient Roman Milan city can be found in the areas of Cairoli, Cordusio, Duomo, Cadorna, Sant’Ambrogio and Porta Genova. With an itinerary designed solely for pedestrians, from via S. Giovanni sul Muro, where the old city walls stood, to one of the most significant Roman Milan landmarks, the former location of Emperor Massimian’s palace which featured thermal baths and a circus can be found between via Torino and corso Magenta in proximity to the archaeological excavations happening near via Brisa.

Milan’s Roman Theater, built during the reign of Emperor Augustus (31 B.C-14 A.D), stood in the heart of the imperial city. According to historical documentation it remained in use until the 4th century A.D., serving, in the centuries that followed, as the fulcrum of public life in Milan. Today, the Roman Theater’s remains are housed in Milan’s Chamber of Commerce and can be visited by appointment only at Palazzo Turati, formerly the historic premises of the organization. Free admission (booking required www.mi.camcom.it/teatro-romano)

Milan’s Roman Amphitheater Park and Antiquarium “ALDA LEVI”: this historic complex showcases the remains and tells the story of Milan’s Roman amphitheater. A detailed illustration hosted in the adjacent Antiquarium ”ALDA LEVI”, describes the general functioning of an amphitheater with a specific focus on the one located in Milan. Archaeological finds from the area are also showcased here. The Roman Amphitheater Park is home to a relaxing green space situated next to foundation ruins of the radial, perimeter walls of the monument.

Archaeological Museum of Milan Found in the cloister of an old monastery – the Monastero Maggiore di San Maurizio – dating back to the 8th century A.D., it houses Greek, Etruscan, Roman and medieval works of art, among which the famous “Parabiago Plate”. The Archaeological Museum of Milan also keeps pieces belonging to the Barbarian and Ghandara civilizations.