Colonne di San Lorenzo

Overview

The Colonne di San Lorenzo are 16 ancient Roman Corinthian columns standing in front of the Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore, one of the few visible remnants of Roman Mediolanum.

Highlights

• Roman Heritage: The columns, dating to the 2nd-3rd century AD, were likely part of a Roman bath or temple and relocated here in the 4th century.
• Social Hub: The colonnade is one of Milan's most popular gathering spots, especially among university students on warm evenings.
• Basilica di San Lorenzo: The adjacent early Christian basilica has an octagonal chapel with 4th-century mosaics.

History

When Emperor Maximian made Mediolanum (Milan) the capital of the Western Roman Empire in 286 AD, the city was adorned with grand public buildings. These columns were salvaged and repositioned to create a monumental entrance to the Basilica of San Lorenzo, built around 370 AD.

Visitor Tips

• Evening Visit: Come at sunset to see the columns lit up and the square filled with locals having aperitivo.
• Combined Visit: Enter the basilica (free) to see the Chapel of Sant'Aquilino with its original gold mosaics.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes.