Colonne di San Lorenzo

Colonne di San Lorenzo (2).jpg
Colonne di San Lorenzo (2).jpg
Colonne di San Lorenzo (1).jpg
30 Corso di Porta Ticinese Milano Lombardia 20123 IT

When visiting Milan, you may stumble upon an ancient relic that stands as a testament to the city’s rich history: the Colonne di San Lorenzo. This article will take you on a journey through time, exploring the historical and architectural significance of these columns and their surrounding area. So, let’s embark on this adventure together and uncover the secrets of the Colonne di San Lorenzo!

History of Colonne di San Lorenzo

The Colonne di San Lorenzo date back to the late 2nd to early 3rd century AD, during the Roman Empire. They were originally part of a larger complex that included a bathhouse and a basilica. The columns were moved to their current location in the 4th century AD to make way for the construction of the Basilica di San Lorenzo Maggiore.

During the Middle Ages, the columns served as a gathering place for various events, including markets and religious processions. They also played a crucial role in defining the city’s layout, as they marked the southern boundary of Milan.

Restoration and modern times

Over the centuries, the Colonne di San Lorenzo suffered from weathering and pollution. In the 1930s, a restoration project was undertaken to preserve these ancient treasures. Today, the site is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Architectural Features

Corinthian columns: The Colonne di San Lorenzo is a row of 16 marble Corinthian columns, standing around 8 meters tall. They are intricately carved and topped with ornate capitals, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of Roman sculptors.

Basilica di San Lorenzo Maggiore Adjacent to the columns, you’ll find the Basilica di San Lorenzo Maggiore, a historic church that dates back to the 4th century AD. Its unique blend of architectural styles, from Romanesque to Baroque, is a testament to the city’s diverse history.

Archi di Porta Ticinese: Close by, the Archi di Porta Ticinese is another notable architectural feature. These triumphal arches, dating back to the 16th century, once served as a gateway into the city.

Cultural Significance

The Colonne di San Lorenzo has been a vital part of Milanese culture for centuries. It has served as a gathering place for various events and continues to be a popular spot for socializing, particularly during the warmer months.

Surrounding Area

Parco delle Basiliche: Located nearby is the Parco delle Basiliche, a green oasis in the heart of Milan. The park is home to the Basilica di San Lorenzo Maggiore and the Basilica of Sant’Eustorgio, two of the city’s most important religious sites. The park offers a tranquil respite from the bustling streets of Milan, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Colonne di San Lorenzo.

Navigli district:  The Navigli district, famous for its picturesque canals and vibrant nightlife, is also within walking distance of the Colonne di San Lorenzo. The area is a popular destination for dining, shopping, and enjoying aperitivo, the Italian tradition of pre-dinner drinks and appetizers.

Corso di Porta Ticinese: Corso di Porta Ticinese is a lively shopping street located near the Colonne di San Lorenzo. The street is home to an array of boutiques, antique shops, and trendy bars, offering a unique shopping experience for visitors and locals alike.

Nightlife and Events

The area surrounding the Colonne di San Lorenzo is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to different tastes. In the summer months, the square in front of the columns comes alive with outdoor events and live music performances, drawing crowds from all over the city.

Visiting Colonne di San Lorenzo

How to get there:  The Colonne di San Lorenzo is easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest metro station is Sant’Ambrogio (Line M2), a 10-minute walk away. Alternatively, you can take tram 3 or 9, which stop directly in front of the columns.

When to visit: The site is open to the public 24/7 and is particularly enchanting in the evening when the columns are illuminated. The best time to visit is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor events are held in the area.

Guided tours: While it is possible to explore the Colonne di San Lorenzo independently, guided tours can provide valuable insight into the history and significance of the site. Several companies offer walking tours that include the Colonne di San Lorenzo and other nearby attractions.

Other Attractions Nearby

In addition to the Colonne di San Lorenzo, Milan offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. Some notable sites nearby include the iconic Cathedral of Milan (Duomo di Milano), the historic Sforza Castle, and the renowned Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper, housed in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Church of San Vittore al Corpo (7).jpg
0.99 km
Romanesque basilica reconstructed in the 16th century; the wooden choir in the chancel is magnificent. ...
Palazzo Clerici (1).jpg
1.06 km
This splendid palace, built in the early decades of the 18th century contains a magnificent gallery of tapestries and a famous fresco painted by Giambattista Tiepolo about 1740,...
Duomo Cathedral (17).jpg
1.07 km
The cathedral was started in 1386. It is a magnificent example of a very special interpretation of Gothic architecture by the Lombards. It rises like a huge mountain of marble b...
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II - lastsuppertickets (6).jpg
1.09 km
The famous Galleria connects the plaza of the Cathedral to the Piazza della Scala. Building began in 1865 under the direction of Giuseppe Mengoni who died in 1877 after falling ...
Antico Ospedale Maggiore (2).jpg
1.17 km
Once called by the Milanese “Ca’ Granda” (the Big House) this building was commissioned by Francesco Sforza who, in 1456, decided to gather into one hospital the numerous ...
Leonardo Da Vinci, Piazza Della Scala, Milan, Italy.JPG
1.17 km
In the center of the plaza we find the Monument to Leonardo da Vinci by Pietro Magni (1872). Four statues of the Milanese disciples of Leonardo, Marco d’Oggriono, G. Anton...
Palazzo Marino (1).jpg
1.2 km
This was built between 1553 and 1558 by Galeazzo Alessi for the Genoese merchant. Tommaso Marino The courtyard walls and columns are richly adorned with modeled concrete heads, ...
Teatro alia Scala (Scala Theatre) (1).jpg
The building with severe lines stands on one side of the Piazza della Scala. In the center of the square is the monument to Leonardo da Vinci by the sculptor Pietro Magni (1872)...
Casa degli Omenoni (2).jpg
1.32 km
The “House of the Omenoni” was built by Leone Leoni and is one of the most interesting late sixteenth century buildings in Milan. It has eight caryatids called “Omen...
Sforzesco Castle (11).jpg
1.37 km
What we see today is only a part of the original citadel which, at the beginning, consisted of other forts enclosed in a great star-shaped ramparted fortress. The perimetral dev...
Manzoni's house (3).jpg
1.37 km
Welcome to the world of Alessandro Manzoni, a prominent Italian author, poet, and playwright. His house in Milan, known as Casa di Manzoni, has been transformed into a museum th...
Palazzo Belgioioso (2).jpeg
1.37 km
Piermarini constructed this palace for the princes, Antonio and Alberico Barbiano of Belgioioso between the years 1772 and 1781. The façade has three stories of twenty-five wind...
Ca' de Sass.jpg
1.38 km
The Museum of History, ‘Ca’ de sass”, so called on account of the large stones projecting from its exterior walls, is housed in a small building on 11 Via Ande...
Palazzo Sormani (3).jpg
1.4 km
Palazzo Sormani, nestled in the heart of Milan, Italy, is a remarkable historical building with an impressive architectural design. Completed in 1779, the Palazzo was initially ...
Museo Poldi Pezzoli (8).jpg
The apartment in Via Manzoni No. 12 in which the Poldi Pezzoli Museum is housed, was destined to become a museum bv a member of a noble family, Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli in 187...
Basilica of San Carlo al Corso (3).jpg
1.49 km
The present day basilica of St. Carlo was built on the site of the old church and convent ol the Servants of Mary. When preparations for Ferdinando I of Austria’s entrance into ...
Palazzo Toscanini.jpg
1.55 km
This 17th century mansion is the dwelling of the famous orchestra conductor s family. On the outside is a superb wrought iron railing on the central balcony The larghe front doo...
Via Monte Napoleone (2).JPG
1.57 km
Via Monte Napoleone is synonymous with opulence, elegance, and the finest in fashion. Nestled in the heart of Milan, this prestigious street is a hub for high-end shopping and d...
Piccolo Teatro (1).png
Just a few meters from Via Dante and next to the old Palazzo del Carmagnola is the Piccolo Teatro that was founded in 1947 by Paolo Grassi and Giorgio Strehler. The aim was not ...
Brera Picture Gallery (1).jpg
1.61 km
The name Brera come from the place where the “Umiliati” (an order of religious men and laymen) built their house within the city walls in about 1170. In the 13th century t...
Showing 21 - 40 of 77 results
Colonne di San Lorenzo (1).jpg 4 years ago
  • You must to post comments
Colonne di San Lorenzo (2).jpg 4 years ago
  • You must to post comments
Showing 2 results