stefania valdini

A beautiful Basilica, a Holy place of worship. When exiting and walking the portico towards the entrance we were showered by the bells concert, it was incredible, everybody stopped, the sounds of these ancient bells resonating on these ancient walls, like they did for centuries, it was breath taking!!!

Alexis R. Stathakis

A beautiful and deeply atmospheric place that really shows the soul of Milan. The Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio feels calm and powerful at the same time, with its ancient brick architecture, peaceful courtyard, and rich history that you can sense as soon as you walk in. It’s not overly crowded, which makes the visit even more special and reflective. I was also lucky enough to attend a concert dedicated to Sant’Ambrogio inside the basilica, where a symphonic orchestra and choir performed Mozart. Hearing that music in such a historic and spiritual setting was truly unforgettable and made the experience even more meaningful. A must-see in Milan, especially if you enjoy history, art, and music.

Viola Marqeni

The Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio is a masterpiece of the Lombard Romanesque and a spiritual and historical symbol of Milan, capable of exciting every visitor with its austere beauty and its deep sacredness. Visiting the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio means immersing yourself in over 1600 years of history, art and spirituality. Founded in 386 A.D. by Saint Ambrose himself, it stands on an ancient Christian cemetery area and represents one of the most important examples of Romanesque architecture in Italy. • Exterior: The gable facade with the characteristic quadriportico introduces a place of recollection and silence, far from the chaos of the city. • Interior: The atmosphere is solemn and evocative, with cross vaults, stone columns and a magnificent apse mosaic that captures the eye B. • Artistic masterpieces: The famous Golden Altar from the Carolingian era, the ciborium above the crypt and the sarcophagus of Stilicon stand out, precious testimonies of early Christian and medieval art. • The basilica is still an active place of worship, where the Ambrosian rite is celebrated, a unique liturgical tradition of Milan. Special events, such as the Mass in ancient Ambrosian rite, strengthen the bond between past and present E F. • The new museum path “Ambrosius” enhances the artistic and spiritual heritage of the complex, offering a deep reading of the figure of the saint and the history of the city G. • Accessibility: Easily accessible by public transport, the basilica is open every day with long hours. • Atmosphere: The cloister and the Sacello of San Vittore in Ciel d’Oro, with its golden mosaics, give moments of contemplation and wonder C. • Tip: Participating in a guided tour allows you to fully grasp the historical and symbolic richness of the place. In summary, the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio is not just a church, but a journey into the heart of Christian Milan, a place where art, faith and history merge into an unforgettable experience. An essential stop for anyone who wants to know the authentic soul of the city.

+4

Varto Basmajian

The Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio is one of the most important historical sites in Milan and absolutely worth a visit. Built in the 4th century, it is one of the oldest churches in Italy and one of the first established in Milan when Christianity was newly spreading through the Roman Empire. You feel that history immediately when you walk into the courtyard and see the early Christian architecture that has survived for more than 1,600 years. The interior is solemn and beautifully preserved, with a mix of Romanesque and early Christian elements that give the basilica a very distinct character. The golden altar, the crypt of Saint Ambrose, and the mosaics are all highlights. Despite its importance, the basilica remains calm and not overly crowded, which makes the visit even more enjoyable. It is an essential stop for understanding Milan’s early history and the foundations of Christianity in the region.

+15

Maria Plewa

If you are looking for a nice, small and peaceful church, this is the place for you. There is such a good atmosphere and the whole church is breathtaking and fascinating. There is a crypt which you can go in for free with the actual body of Saint Ambrosia under the beautiful altar. I highly recommend having a quick look around this wonderful church if you are in the area.

Percy Chang

It is located near the metro station and well preserved. The mosaic behind the ciborium is splendid. Paintings are fabulous.

+2

Mark Pabst

If you are into the gory aspects of the catholic church this place is for you. Martyrs, crypts, and decomposed bodies. All for free. There is also a lot of history about Milan and the role this site has played in Milan's development.

+6

Susan Henkel

Magnificent. Most tourists come to Milan for the Last Supper. Please take some time to witness the simplicity of this Basilica. Peaceful, reflective, restorative.

+10

Seokjin Ham

One of the most important medieval churches in northern Italy, the basilica was originally founded between 379 and 386 by Sant’Ambrogio (Saint Ambrose) as the Basilica Martyrum, dedicated to early Christian martyrs. The current Romanesque structure was built between 1088 and 1099, with further additions including the left bell tower and later architectural enhancements. The basilica suffered damage during the 1943 bombings, particularly to its mosaics and ceiling, and was carefully restored in the 1950s. The complex features a beautiful quadriportico, the Monks’ Tower (9th century, left side), and the Singers’ Tower (12th century, right side). Near the entrance stands the Devil’s Column, a Roman column marked with two holes — said by legend to be the imprint of the devil’s horns after a failed attempt to tempt Saint Ambrose. Each December, the basilica hosts the traditional Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Christmas market, held for centuries during the feast of Saint Ambrose.

+10

Dmitry

This is one of the most popular churches in Milan (after the Duomo and Santa Maria della Grazie), and for a good reason, as it is one of the oldest and beautiful churches in the city, also consecrated to its most beloved saint. The architecture we see is mostly of 11-12th centuries (or earlier) with minimal alterations. The most beautiful part of the church is the Oratory of San Vittore in Ciel d'Oro, with amazing 5th century mosaics and small adjasent museum (requires a small fee to enter). There is also 13th century mosaic in apse (although heavily restored), intricately carved Romanesque pulpit, and many other artistic miracles inside.

+29