Brera neighborhood

The Brera district of Milan, one of the most fascinating and rich in history, is a hub of Italian art and culture. Located in the heart of the city, bordered by historic streets such as via Pontaccio, via Fatebenefratelli, and via Monte di Pietà, Brera is a place where the past and present harmoniously blend, offering a unique experience to visitors. The history of Brera is indissolubly linked to the Palazzo di Brera, an imposing building constructed in the 17th century. Originally conceived as a convent, the palace was transformed into a college by the Jesuits before becoming property of the Austrian State after the suppression of the order in 1773. Today, the Palazzo di Brera houses the famous Pinacoteca di Brera, the Academy of Fine Arts, the Astronomical Observatory, and the Botanical Garden, making it a multifaceted cultural center. The Pinacoteca di Brera, officially founded in 1809, is one of Italy’s most important museums, with a collection ranging from the 13th to the 20th century. This museum does not have aristocratic origins, but stems from a political and Enlightenment project, an idea of the Napoleonic era and the Italian Kingdom. Initially, the collection served educational purposes for the students of the Academy of Fine Arts, founded by Maria Theresa of Austria in 1776. The institution aimed to offer students the opportunity to study artistic masterpieces up close, thus promoting a high-quality education. Among the masterpieces housed in the Pinacoteca di Brera are works such as “The Sacred Conversation” by Piero della Francesca, a sublime example of Renaissance balance and harmony, and “The Kiss” by Francesco Hayez. The latter, created in 1859, has become a symbol of Italian Romanticism and the Risorgimento, representing not only an intimate moment between lovers, but also the ideal of freedom and national unity that animated Italy at the time. The statue of Napoleon Bonaparte as the Peaceful Mars, a work by Antonio Canova, dominates the palace courtyard, symbolizing the Napoleonic influence in the museum’s history. Unlike the great collections of Florence or Rome, the Pinacoteca di Brera is not based on private collections of aristocrats, but on a state project aimed at creating a representative national collection of Italian art. The Brera district is also known for its bohemian spirit, with welcoming streets dotted with historic cafes, fashion boutiques, and art galleries. Iconic places like the Jamaica bar, frequented by artists and intellectuals, and the Crespi stationery store, which sells professional materials for artists, keep the artistic tradition of the neighborhood alive. Via Borgonuovo, where the Naviglio once flowed, now hosts ancient noble palaces and historic residences, adding a touch of elegance and history to the urban landscape.