Known as the “District of Ideas”, Brera is one of the most picturesque areas of Milan’s historic centre, home of the famous Accademia di Belle Arti and headquarters of the “Corriere della Sera”, the most important Italian newspaper.
The historic, ancient but at the same time modern atmosphere of this district – which runs from Via Brera to Via Solferino – is almost surreal: here you can find hereherrrr small artisan workshops and quaint stores selling canvases and paint. The impressive Accademia di Belle Arti welcomes visitors who can admire masterpieces by Caravaggio, Mantegna, Raphael and many others at the Pinacoteca di Brera (the Brera Art Gallery). In addition to that there are the historic Braidense National Library, the Astronomical Museum, and Botanical Garden. The Pinacoteca can also be enjoyed from home thanks to convenient virtual tours.
In the evening, shopping gives way to a trendy nightlife atmosphere as its charming cobbled streets fill up with stalls, street musicians and visitors.
The Brera district is also a reference point for antique lovers and boasts numerous antique shops and art galleries. If interested, take some time to visit the Mercatino di Antiquariato e Brocantage – the local antiquities market.
In addition to its picturesque artisanal workshops, Brera is slowly becoming populated with small yet delectable shops carrying only the most sought-after fragrances, transforming the area into a ‘district of Artistic Perfumery’. As unmissable stops of ‘Haute Parfumerie’ we suggest The Merchant of Venice boutique – a historic perfumery epitomizing the art of Venetian perfume-making – and the Olfattorio Bar-à-Parfums, dedicated to speciality perfumery.
There’s nothing more to add, Brera is surely an unforgettable and unmissable place!
