Milan native Tommaso Mardegan of luxury DMC N2S Italia shares the city’s hidden treasure San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, sometimes called the “Sistine Chapel of Milan.”
What makes it so special?
I love this site because it perfectly represents Milan: sober and elegant on the outside, incredibly beautiful and rich inside. Milan is a shy lady, and in order to discover her hidden beauties, like secret gardens and noble palazzos, one must get intimate with the city. When you pass in front of San Maurizio’s anonymous gray façade on the vibrant and crowded Corso Magenta, you would never expect the treasure hidden within. But once inside, the 16th Century fresco cycle by Bernardino Luini covering the walls is an explosion of colors to dazzle the eyes.
How did you discover this treasure?
I found out about this site during my university studies as I participated in a project called “Milano Fuoriclasse,” in which I guided elementary school students through town to discover its heritage and culture. One itinerary was dedicated to the “Roman” Milan, with sites from the period in which Milan was the capital of the Roman Empire. San Maurizio was built partially reusing ancient Roman edifices, like the square bell tower which was originally part of the lost Roman Hippodrome.
How can visitors best experience this gem?
Visit San Maurizio either in the morning following a very Milanese breakfast at nearby Marchesi, making pastries since 1824… or before lunch at another very popular local spot in Milan – La Brisa restaurant, offering outdoor seating in a lovely garden.
Instead of suggesting you order the typical Risotto alla Milanese with Ossobuco, I prefer to recommend that you order according to the season! For example, there are incredible Porcini mushrooms in the fall to have as an appetizer, as a primo with risotto, or as your main course with polenta or beef Tagliata.
What else can visitors see in the area?
Corso Magenta is the home of the Santa Maria delle Grazie church, where Leonardo da Vinci’s “Last Supper” masterpiece can be found. Also, Corso Magenta is also home of the Vigna di Leonardo (Leonardo Vineyard), another hidden gem of Milan. And if you’re up for a short walk, the impressive Castle Sforzesco is just a few minutes away.
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