Table Of Contents
Monza is located a few kilometers north of Milan and is a city rich in history and culture. Known for its famous racetrack, it offers much more than one can imagine.
Its historic center is a jewel of medieval architecture, with cobblestone streets and historic monuments that tell centuries of history.
Looking for a guide to discover the city in one day and not miss a thing? Here it is!
Monza Cathedral, Museum of Treasures and Theodolinda Chapel
Monza Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, famous for housing the Corona Ferrea, an ancient tiara used to crown kings and emperors. Its white and green marble facade is an outstanding example of medieval art. Just inside it is the Cathedral Museum and Treasury, where a unique collection of sacred art can be admired. Among the treasures on display are precious reliquaries, liturgical vestments, and ancient manuscripts, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s religious and artistic history.
Here you can also visit the Theodolinda Chapel, a place of great artistic merit. The frescoes that adorn its walls tell the story of the Lombard queen Theodolinda and are an excellent example of medieval Lombard painting.
📍 Piazza Duomo, 20900 Monza.
Reggia di Monza
The Reggia di Monza, or Villa Reale, is one of Italy’s most fascinating royal residences, designed by architect Giuseppe Piermarini in the late 18th century at the behest of Archduke Ferdinand of Habsburg. Originally conceived as a summer residence for the Austrian imperial court, the royal villa is surrounded by one of the largest enclosed parks in Europe, the Parco di Monza. A special point of interest is the Niso Fumagalli Rose Garden, located in the gardens of the villa. This beautiful rose garden is home to a large collection of rose varieties, which bloom in a riot of color and fragrance during spring and summer.
The Reggia di Monza is also a vibrant cultural center. Indeed, it hosts temporary art exhibitions, concerts and cultural events that attract visitors from all over Italy and beyond.
Palazzo dell’Arengario
Located in the heart of the city, near the vast Market Square and aligned with the main street that connected Monza to Milan and Brianza, the Palazzo dell’Arengario is a medieval building that once served as the seat of city government. Its crenellated tower is a symbol of the city.
The original complex has been reduced to just the town hall due to building events and restoration. In fact, the praetorian, or podestà’s, palace is now gone but once stood next to it, connected by a suspended passageway.
📍 Piazza Roma, 20900 Monza.
Monza Park
Monza Park is one of the largest enclosed parks in Europe. It was created in 1805 at the behest of Napoleon Bonaparte and is an example of neoclassical landscaping. Perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic, it is also home to the Autodromo Nazionale di Monza, famous for Formula 1 races.
📍 Viale Cavriga, 20090 Monza.
Expiatory Chapel
Built to commemorate the assassination of King Umberto I, the Expiatory Chapel is a striking monument surrounded by greenery. Its neo-Gothic architecture is a tribute to the memory of the king.
📍 Via Matteo da Campione 8, 20900 Monza.
Ponte dei Leoni
The Bridge of Lions is another of Monza’s symbols. Built in the 19th century, it has three arches with granite abutments and on each of its four sides stand majestic four marble lions, a symbol of strength and vigilance, sculpted by sculptor Tantardini. Today, it is a beloved gathering place, perfectly framing the urban landscape of Monza.
📍 Via Vittorio Emanuele II, 20900 Monza.
Square Trento and Trieste and the War Memorial
Trento e Trieste Square is the beating heart of Monza, a place for citizens to meet and socialize. Dominated by the War Memorial, the square pays tribute to Monza soldiers who fell during the world wars. The monument, inaugurated in 1923, is a bronze and marble work of art depicting a standing soldier, a symbol of courage and sacrifice. The square is surrounded by delightful cafes and stores, which we recommend you visit.
📍 Trento and Trieste Square, 20900 Monza.
Torre di Teodolinda
The Tower of Theodolinda is a fascinating medieval tower that stands in the heart of Monza, linked to the historical figure of the Lombard queen Theodolinda. Built in the 13th century, it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. Climbing its steps, one can imagine Monza’s glorious past and the central role the city played in Lombard history.
📍 Via Lambro, 20900 Monza.
Historic center: the churches
The historic center of Monza is a fascinating maze of cobblestone streets, dotted with historic churches that tell centuries of faith and art. Among them, Santa Maria in Strada is known for its terracotta facade decorated with intricate Gothic motifs. San Maurizio, on the other hand, holds precious Renaissance frescoes that enchant visitors with their vividness. Not only that, it is here that Marianna de Leyva, immortalized by Alessandro Manzoni as the “Nun of Monza,” took her vows.
Another church in the historic center of Monza that is worth a visit is Santa Maria al Carrobiolo, where the monks are said to have once produced a craft beer prized throughout the region. Finally, San Pietro Martire is famous for its Romanesque bell tower and for having been an important center of Dominican preaching.
Monza National Circuit
We conclude our tour through the city of Monza with a visit to the Autodromo Nazionale, an icon of world motorsport. Even if you are not a Formula 1 fan, a visit to the autodrome is a unique experience. Here you can breathe in the adrenaline of racing and discover the history of one of the most prestigious circuits in the world and the third oldest! The circuit, nestled in Monza Park, also offers events and guided tours to discover the secrets of motor racing.
📍 Viale di Vedano 5, 20900 Monza.