One of the most beautiful spring events and one of Milan’s oldest fairs is about to return—and you may not even know it. It is celebrated every Easter Monday and dates back over five hundred years. A tradition born of the friars who tended the gardens, it brings spring to the heart of the city, amidst modern skyscrapers and luxury boutiques.
History and Tradition
According to tradition, the fair dates back to around 1500. It is said that in 1511, a difficult year for Milan, which was struck by disease and famine, the Franciscan friars of the Sant’Angelo monastery were attacked by a band of brigands. Their prayers are said to have summoned the appearance of an angel armed with a sword, who put the attackers to flight. Since those friars were expert gardeners, the tradition of the flower market—which still animates the historic Milanese fair today—is said to have originated from that event.
For one day , the fair brings the area around the church of Sant’Angelo, between Via Moscova and Corso di Porta Nuova, to life. The church itself has a fascinating history: it is said to take its name from a healing angel who appeared to stop the Black Death. Over the years, the friars expanded the chapel, transforming it into a large church, and built the convent of Santa Maria degli Angeli next to it, inspired by the Porziuncola in Assisi. With time, the complex became increasingly majestic, eventually boasting seven cloisters and a rich library.
Due to its extraordinary beauty, the complex was known as “the paradise of Milan.” It was a place where sermons were preached, the needy were welcomed, and works of art were preserved; however, such splendor raised some doubts about the monks’ humility. Partially destroyed in 1527 and demolished in 1551, it was later rebuilt
Information about the Fair and Easter Monday
Throughout Easter Monday, the streets around the church of Sant’Angelo, between Via Moscova and Corso di Porta Nuova, will transform into a large flower garden for the traditional Fiera dell’Angelo. From 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., you can buy plants and flowers to brighten up balconies and windowsills, as well as find stalls selling clothing, toys, jewelry, and sweet treats like cotton candy and artisanal specialties. A perfect opportunity to spend a pleasant day with the family.
Not just the Fiera dell’Angelo: this year, Holy Week coincides with the first Sunday of the month, which means free admission to museums! In fact, on the first of every month, many Milanese museums, including the Museo del Novecento and the Pinacoteca di Brera ( for which reservations are required), open their doors free of charge to anyone wishing to immerse themselves in art.