Amid modern buildings and glass skyscrapers, in what is becoming an increasingly futuristic city, an 18th-century villa stands out, housing a romantic Italianate garden and an admirable collection of artworks. Villa Clerici is a hidden gem in the Niguarda area, where lovers of modern sacred art can admire the more than 200 works on display within its walls.
365 windows, one for every day of the year
A special feature of Villa Clerici is definitely the 365 windows, one for each day of the year, and the 12 balconies, one for each month. This unique architectural choice turns the villa into a giant calendar carved in stone. It is a rare detail that reflects the care and symbolism of the Clerici family, making the building even more fascinating and mysterious to the eyes of those who visit it. The villa holds many other wonders, for example, the Gallery of Contemporary Sacred Art (GASC), which has more than 3,000 pieces in its collection, 200 of which are on permanent display.
A 5-story guardhouse and two Greco-Roman theaters.
Villa Clerici’s terraced garden is structured on five levels, which slope down toward the Naviglio Grande, and which are connected by monumental Baroque paths and stairways. Each level features manicured avenues, geometric flower beds, historic statues, and a rich variety of botanicals.
In addition, in the large park at the back of the villa are two open-air theaters reminiscent of the Greek and Roman styles, featuring columns and scenic backdrops made from historic materials salvaged from the bombing of Milan. These, offer a very special and intimate stage setting; in fact, they often host open-air concerts, such as those by Candlelight.
📍Location: Via Giovanni Terruggia 8/14
🕒GASC hours : Thursday through Sunday, 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. (Sunday 6:30 p.m.), Saturday open for groups by reservation only – Currently closed for the summer, will reopen Sept. 7, 2025
🎟️Ingresso: €3.00 up to 25 and €5.00 after 25