Museo Poldi Pezzoli

Overview

The Museo Poldi Pezzoli is a jewel-box house museum near La Scala, showcasing the exquisite private collection of 19th-century Milanese nobleman Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli in his former residence.

Highlights

• Pollaiolo's Portrait of a Young Woman: The museum's iconic symbol, an elegant Renaissance profile portrait considered one of the most beautiful in the world.
• Armory Room: A stunning display of medieval and Renaissance arms and armor arranged in a frescoed room.
• Textile Collection: Exceptional Persian carpets and Flemish tapestries spanning the 14th to 19th centuries.

History

Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli inherited his fortune at age 24 and spent decades obsessively assembling his collection before bequeathing the entire house and its contents to the public upon his death in 1879. Despite severe bomb damage in 1943, the collection was miraculously saved.

Visitor Tips

• Audio Guide: Free and highly recommended for understanding the collector's personality reflected in each room.
• Combo Tickets: Available with other Milanese house museums like Museo Bagatti Valsecchi.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.