The Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio: an awe-inspiring structure in Milan

The Architecture of the Basilica

The basilica was originally built by St. Ambrose, bishop of Milan, between 379–386 AD. The basilica stands on the site of a cemetery housing the remains of numerous martyrs of Roman persecutions, and St. Ambrose was himself laid to rest here in the year 397. Since then, the basilica has been expanded and reconstructed several times over the centuries. The rebuilt aisles and vaulted nave date from 1128, the atrium from around 1050 and the narthex from 1095–96. Then, between 1492 and 1497, Donato Bramante was commissioned to redesign sections of the basilica and its chapel based on his designs of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City.

A Visit to the Basilica

The Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio and its museum certainly merit a visit. Particular artefacts to look out for include the 6th century Byzantine reliefs in the atrium and the golden Alter. Another detail worthy of mention is the 10th-century relief on the ciborium, where Christ is depicted handing a book to Paul and keys to Peter. A truly chilling sight at the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio is the skeleton of St. Ambrogio himself, preserved in a clear glass case and adorned in bishop's finery, dainty slippers included. At his side lie the third-century martyrs St. Gervasius and Protasius.

Make the Most of Your Visit

The quiet atmosphere of the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio allows visitors time and space to move around at their leisure, although it is advisable to arrive early in the morning before too many tour groups show up. To reach the basilica, take the Green Line on the metro and alight at Sant'Ambrogio. The Museo Della Scienza e della Tecnologia and Sforza Castle are a short walk away.

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Author: Sabrina Renna

Guest Relations at nhow Milano

Ciao! My name is Sabrina and I am Guest Relations Manager at nhow Milano since January 2024. I love my job as gives me the chance to know guests from all over the world who enjoy their stay for business either for leisure. I enjoy creating a sort of engagement and connection with them in order to anticipate their needs or questions given them the best opportunities and some genuine suggestions to have a great stay. The most important task is also creating lovely and special memories in order for the guests to come back soon for new experiences at nhow Milano. I always have good memories of my previous job which was Guest Relations on cruise lines therefore after some years I studied and achieved the boat license, I think good feelings and good memories will always create your life journey and create a path for your next goal.