Amid modern buildings and glass skyscrapers, in a city that is becoming increasingly futuristic, lies a 18th-century villa that houses a romantic Italian garden, two amphitheaters —one used in the summer for musical experiences under the stars —and an admirable collection of works of art. This villa is a true hidden gem in the Niguarda area, where lovers of modern sacred art can admire the more than 200 works on display within its walls.
Built between 1722 and 1733 at the behest of a powerful Milanese family that had amassed wealth through the silk trade and held important public offices, the villa was originally designed as an elegant country residence. The design is by Francesco Croce, the same architect responsible for the main spire of Milan Cathedral.
365 windows, one for every day of the year
A distinctive feature of this 18th-century residence is undoubtedly its 365 windows—one for every day of the year—and its 12 balconies, one for every month. This unique architectural choice transforms the villa into a giant calendar carved in stone. It is a rare detail that makes the building even more fascinating and mysterious to visitors. The villa houses many other wonders, such as the Gallery of Contemporary Sacred Art (GASC), which boasts a collection of over 3,000 pieces, 200 of which are on permanent display.
Gardens, Theaters, and Immersive Experiences
The garden is mainly divided into two parts: a front Italian-style garden, namely the courtyard of honor with allegorical statues, and a vast, scenic rear park. In the latter, there are two open-air theaters in the Greco-Roman neoclassical style, with columns and stage wings constructed using materials salvaged from the bombings of Milan; these intimate and evocative spaces often host open-air concerts, such as the Candlelight concerts.
How to get there?
Villa Clerici, located on Via Giovanni Terruggia, is easily accessible by public transportation. For those arriving by metro, the most direct route is the yellow M3 line to the Maciachini stop, from which you continue on tram 4 to the Niguarda Centro stop, just a few minutes from the villa. Alternatively, you can get off at the Ca’ Granda stop on the lilac M5 line and take bus 42 or 52, which stop on Via Terruggia and at Niguarda Nord, both very close to the venue.
📍Location: Via Giovanni Terruggia 8/14
🕒GASC Hours: Thursday through Sunday, 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM (Sunday until 6:30 PM); open to groups on Saturdays by reservation only
🎟️Admission: €3.00 for those under 25, €5.00 full price
