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Museums #17 in Milan

Triennale di Milano

4.5 · 9,002 reviews
Intellectual, spacious, and minimalist.
Triennale di Milano, Viale Emilio Alemagna, 6, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
Interesting facts
1

The building was constructed using a modular frame system that allowed for the flexible reconfiguration of interior spaces for different exhibition cycles.

2

The structure features a 'Loggia' that overlooks Sempione Park, designed to bridge the gap between the interior gallery spaces and the natural landscape.

3

The Museo del Design Italiano holds a collection that spans from 1946 to the present, focusing on the evolution of Italian production.

4

The Palazzo dell'Arte was the first building in Milan to be constructed with a reinforced concrete frame, enabling the creation of large, column-free exhibition halls.

5

The Triennale hosts the permanent 'Design Museum' collection which changes its layout periodically to reflect new curatorial themes.

6

The museum maintains an extensive archive of materials from past International Exhibitions, including documents and photographs dating back to the 1920s.

7

De Chirico’s iconic 'I Bagni Misteriosi' sculpture is located in the museum's garden area.

Overview

Triennale di Milano serves as Italy’s premier institution for design, architecture, and contemporary art, housed within the historic Palazzo dell'Arte. Designed by architect Giovanni Muzio, the building was constructed in 1933 specifically to host the Triennale exhibitions. The museum features the permanent Museo del Design Italiano, which showcases a curated selection of iconic objects from the history of Italian industrial design. The facility includes rotating temporary exhibitions, a public theater, and a dedicated library focused on design history. It functions as a platform for international dialogue on social and urban issues through its extensive archives and exhibitions. The building's layout emphasizes the relationship between artistic expression and functionality. The garden space surrounding the Palazzo contains various outdoor installations and sculptures. It is a central hub for the Milan Design Week activities.

Photo spot

The central staircase and the view from the Loggia overlooking the park.

Insider tips

Check the official website for current exhibition themes before arriving, as the curation changes frequently.

Visit the garden area behind the museum for a view of the Sempione Park and outdoor art installations.

Dedicate time to the museum shop, which stocks specialized publications on design and architecture often unavailable elsewhere.

What to avoid

Do not overlook the museum store; it is considered one of the best-curated design shops in the city.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays.

Etiquette

Photography is permitted for personal use, but flash is strictly prohibited in galleries containing light-sensitive objects.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings to avoid large crowds during temporary exhibition openings.
Address
Triennale di Milano, Viale Emilio Alemagna, 6, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
45.472, 9.174
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsPermanent collection of historical Italian industrial design and rotating contemporary exhibitions

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings to avoid large crowds during temporary exhibition openings..

The central staircase and the view from the Loggia overlooking the park.

Close by you'll find Sforzesco Castle, Duomo di Milano, Parco Sempione.