The church was constructed over an ancient Christian burial ground, known as the 'Basilica Martyrum'.
The Golden Altar is entirely encased in gold and silver plates, depicting scenes from the life of Christ and Saint Ambrose.
The interior contains a 10th-century mosaic in the apse that was heavily restored in the 13th century.
The two bell towers were built in different centuries; the thicker Torre dei Monaci dates to the 9th century, while the taller Torre dei Canonici was added in the 12th century.
The 'Devil's Column' in the square outside the basilica features two holes that local legend claims were made by the horns of the devil during a struggle with Saint Ambrose.
The basilica is built using a mix of brick, stone, and plaster, typical of the medieval Lombard tradition.
It is the resting place of Emperor Louis II, who died in 875.
The structure survived significant damage during World War II Allied bombing raids in 1943.
The Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio is one of Milan's oldest churches, commissioned by Bishop Ambrose in 379 AD and reconstructed in the Romanesque style during the 11th and 12th centuries. It features a distinctive atrium-style courtyard and two bell towers of varying heights, the Torre dei Monaci and the Torre dei Canonici. The interior houses the Golden Altar, a masterpiece of 9th-century Carolingian goldsmithing by Vuolvinus. The crypt contains the silver urn holding the skeletal remains of Saint Ambrose, along with the martyrs Gervasius and Protasius. The portico's intricate stone carvings depict medieval motifs, including griffins and mythical beasts. It serves as a prime example of Lombard Romanesque architecture, characterized by its brick construction and vaulted ceilings. Beneath the portico, archaeological excavations have revealed layers spanning from the Roman era to the Middle Ages.
The center of the atrium courtyard looking toward the brick facade.
Visit the crypt to view the remains of Saint Ambrose, which are displayed in a glass casket.
Spend time in the atrium to observe the architectural details that transition from the Roman period to the Romanesque reconstruction.
Look for the fresco remnants and medieval carvings tucked away in the side aisles.
Do not attempt to enter or wander through the main area during ongoing religious masses, as it is disruptive.
May have limited access to specific chapels during major religious holidays or private ceremonies.
Modest dress is required; shoulders and knees must be covered. Silence is strictly observed during services.
