The Ambrosiana is named after Saint Ambrose, the patron saint of Milan. It is home to a vast collection of art and artifacts, including books, drawings, paintings, sculptures, and manuscripts. The library contains more than 800,000 volumes, making it one of the most important libraries in the .
The museum’s collection includes by famous artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, Raphael, and Caravaggio. One of the museum’s most famous pieces is the Codex Atlanticus, a collection of drawings by Leonardo da Vinci which contains over 1,200 pages of scientific and artistic drawings.
The museum also houses the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana, one of the most significant collections of Renaissance paintings in the world. The Pinacoteca features works by artists such as Titian, Tintoretto, and Bramante.
Aside from its impressive collection, the Ambrosiana’s architecture is also noteworthy. The Renaissance-style building was designed by architects Carlo Amati and Francesco Maria Ricchino. The beautiful courtyard is adorned with sculptures by 17th-century artist Francesco Brambilla.
The Ambrosiana’s history is as impressive as its collection. In 1618, the library was enriched by the acquisition of the library of Cardinal Cesare Monti. Later, in the 18th century, the library was expanded to include books and manuscripts from various other collections. The Ambrosiana also experienced some dark moments, such as when Napoleon Bonaparte took many of the library’s books to France during his conquests.
The museum has undergone significant changes throughout the years. In the 1900s, the library was comprehensively restored, and more recently, the museum underwent a significant renovation lasting from 2009 to 2018. The restoration project had the goal of improving the museum’s layout and making it more accessible to visitors.
Visiting the Ambrosiana is a must for anyone interested in art and history. The museum offers guided tours, which allow visitors to learn the history of the museum and its collection. There are also various exhibitions and events regularly held at the museum, which offer something for everyone.
In conclusion, the Ambrosiana is one of Italy’s most significant cultural attractions. It is a museum with an impressive collection, rich history, and beautiful architecture. Visitors can spend an entire day exploring the museum’s vast collection, and leave with a newfound appreciation for art and history. Despite being centuries old, the museum remains a vibrant and essential part of Milan’s cultural scene. It is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city.