Arch of Peace
Monument Neoclassical triumphal arch marking Milan's Parco Sempione entrance
A 19th-century neoclassical triumphal arch at Milan’s Parco Sempione, frequently photographed by visitors moving between Sforza Castle, the park and Corso Sempione.
The Arch of Peace (Arco della Pace) is a neoclassical triumphal arch in Milan, Lombardy, located at the northwest end of Corso Sempione. It is a 19th century monument designed by Luigi Cagnola and completed in the mid 1800s.
The arch sits at the entrance to Parco Sempione and is notable for its sculptural decoration, including high-relief panels and a sculpted chariot group crowning the structure. The immediate setting and nearby avenues make it a frequent stop on city walks and a focal point for photography.
Work on the arch began under Napoleonic authority in the early 19th century and was interrupted after Napoleon’s fall; construction resumed under later regimes and the monument was completed in the 1830s. Its design and sculptural program reflect neoclassical themes celebrating peace and Italian events of the period.
Located at Piazza Sempione in central Milan, the arch stands between Corso Sempione and Parco Sempione, close to the Castello Sforzesco and major city thoroughfares.
- Best viewpoints: best seen from the northwest end of Corso Sempione or from Parco Sempione, which frame the arch and its sculptural groups.
- Architectural note: construction began during the Napoleonic era and the finished work reflects 19th century neoclassical design by Luigi Cagnola.
How to Get to Arch of Peace #
Located northwest of Milan’s historic center at the top of Corso Sempione; nearest metro is Cadorna or Cairoli (Line 1) with a short walk through Parco Sempione. Numerous tram and bus lines serve the area.
Tips for Visiting Arch of Peace #
- Approach the parkland on foot from nearby Milan neighborhoods to appreciate the arch's scale against city streets.
- Avoid midday when traffic noise reduces the monument's impact.
Best Time to Visit Arch of Peace #
Spring and autumn balance comfortable weather with moderate crowds in Milan's parks.
Weather & Climate near Arch of Peace #
Arch of Peace's climate is classified as Humid Subtropical - Humid Subtropical climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -1°C to 29°C. Abundant rainfall (1001 mm/year), wettest in October.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 6°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (73 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (71 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 7°C. Regular rainfall (87 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 12°C. Significant rainfall (109 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 16°C. Regular rainfall (81 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 29°C and lows of 18°C. Moderate rainfall (72 mm).
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August
August is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 18°C. Regular rainfall (95 mm).
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September
September is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 14°C. Regular rainfall (95 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 9°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (118 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 4°C. Regular rainfall (82 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (62 mm) and partly cloudy skies.