The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Milan, former seat of power

On Piazza del Duomo, the Royal Palace of Milan was the seat of power when the duchy was in the hands of Austria. Developed under Maria Theresa of Austria, it is today a great venue for exhibitions. The Milan audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this history-laden palace, in the heart of the city.

A palace commissioned by Maria Theresa of Austria

The Royal Palace of Milan, the Palazzo Reale, was developed at the initiative of Maria Theresa of Austria, at the time when the duchy of Milan was under Austrian domination. The seat of power for centuries, it was the residence of the governors and the sovereigns. Now transformed into a museum and an art gallery, it hosts major exhibitions and remains a symbol of the prestigious past of the city.

What to see

The palace presents sumptuous rooms and hosts major temporary art exhibitions, which make its reputation. Its façade overlooks Piazza del Duomo, alongside the cathedral. It is a major stop for lovers of art and history, ideally completing the visit of the heart of Milan.

Practical information

The Royal Palace lies on Piazza del Duomo, in the heart of Milan, reachable on foot. Now a museum and exhibition venue, it can be visited; its hours and prices vary with the exhibitions and the season, and it may be closed on certain days. It is best to check the programme before coming.

Who is behind the Royal Palace of Milan?

It was developed at the initiative of Maria Theresa of Austria, at the time when the duchy of Milan was under Austrian domination.

What can you see at the Royal Palace of Milan?

Sumptuous rooms and major temporary art exhibitions, in this former seat of power become a museum, on Piazza del Duomo.