Royal Palace of Milan

The Royal Palace of Milan (Palazzo Reale) is a historic palace on Piazza del Duomo in central Milan that historically served as a seat of government and the residence of ruling authorities. Today it functions as a cultural centre hosting exhibitions and public events.

The palace contains a series of grand rooms, courtyards and exhibition halls used for rotating art and cultural exhibitions, and offers terraces and viewpoints that face the façades of the Duomo and the main square. Exhibition programming varies, making the palace a frequent venue for national and international shows.

The site developed from medieval and Renaissance complexes and was successively adapted under Spanish, Austrian and local Milanese rule; it served administrative and ceremonial functions for the city’s rulers. The building suffered wartime damage in the 20th century and underwent restoration before being reborn as a civic cultural venue.

Palazzo Reale sits on Piazza del Duomo in central Milan, immediately opposite the Milan Cathedral and within the city’s historic core.

• Prime location: Located immediately adjacent to Milan Cathedral, the palace is often visited in combination with the Duomo complex and cathedral terraces.

What to See #

• Main palace and courtyard: The palace complex on Piazza del Duomo comprising state rooms and exhibition halls that open onto the square in front of Milan Cathedral.
• State rooms and exhibition spaces: Historic ceremonial rooms and decorated halls used for temporary exhibitions and cultural events managed by the city's cultural administration.