After more than 50 years of delays and setbacks, Milan’s Pinacoteca di Brera has finally unveiled the Palazzo Citterio, a modern art addition housing one of the world’s most significant collections of 20th-century Italian art. Originally envisioned as part of Napoleon’s vision of a “little Louvre,” this milestone fulfills the long-held dream of a “Grande Brera” complex, which now includes the Pinacoteca, the Braidense National Library, and Leonardo da Vinci’s renowned “Last Supper.”
Director Angelo Crespi, who took charge in January, prioritized completing the project, overcoming structural challenges within a tight timeline set for December 7, Milan’s feast day of St. Ambrose. Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli inaugurated the space on schedule, underscoring the ethical obligation to finally open the historic building after decades of stagnation.
The merger of these cultural treasures into a cohesive system of state-run museums significantly elevates Brera’s status, granting Crespi autonomy over 80% of its revenue. The “Last Supper” and the Pinacoteca now draw a combined 1 million visitors annually and generate over €10 million in revenue, placing them among Italy’s top 10 most-visited sites.
Crespi aims to spotlight Milan’s rich cultural heritage, often overshadowed by its reputation for fashion and finance. With masterpieces by Michelangelo, Canova, Caravaggio, and others within walking distance of the Duomo, he believes Milan can stand alongside Florence, Rome, and Venice as a premier art destination.
The Grande Brera is poised to be the driving force in rebranding Milan as a city of art, celebrating its historic and modern artistic legacy.
