A striking example of Renaissance perspective and emotion, this painting is one of the gallery’s most iconic works.
- Artist: Andrea Mantegna
- Year: c. 1480
- Location: Room 6
The Pinacoteca di Brera houses one of Italy’s most significant collections of paintings, with works dating from the 13th to the 20th century. The gallery is especially known for its Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces, but also features important works from the Venetian, Lombard, and modern Italian schools. Visitors can expect to see altarpieces, portraits, and historical scenes, as well as sculptures and drawings. The collection is displayed across several rooms, each dedicated to a specific period or artistic movement.
The gallery’s Renaissance section features works by artists such as Piero della Francesca, Andrea Mantegna, and Raphael. These paintings are celebrated for their technical innovation and emotional depth.
Paintings by Giovanni Bellini, Tintoretto, and Caravaggio highlight the evolution of color, light, and composition in northern Italy. The Lombard school is particularly well represented, reflecting Milan’s artistic heritage.
The Baroque collection includes dramatic canvases by Rubens and Van Dyck, while the Neoclassical rooms showcase works by Francesco Hayez and other 19th-century Italian artists.
The museum also features a selection of 20th-century works, including pieces by Modigliani and Morandi, offering a bridge between tradition and modernity.
In addition to paintings, the Pinacoteca di Brera displays a notable collection of sculptures and preparatory drawings, providing insight into the creative process of Italy’s greatest artists.
Skip surface-level visits. Let an expert reveal the secrets and genius behind 38 rooms of Italian masterpieces. Wrap it up with a neighborhood walk for a complete picture of Milanese history, all in just 2 hours.
The gallery features over 400 works on display, making it one of Italy’s most important art museums.
Most major works are on view, but some pieces are rotated or under conservation. Temporary exhibitions may also feature selected works.
A typical visit lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, but art enthusiasts may want to spend 3 hours or more exploring the galleries in depth.
The best highlights of the gallery include Mantegna’s Dead Christ, Caravaggio’s Supper at Emmaus, Raphael’s Marriage of the Virgin, and Bellini’s Pietà.
In the gallery, key Renaissance works include paintings by Piero della Francesca, Andrea Mantegna, Raphael, and Giovanni Bellini.
The Baroque section features works by Caravaggio, Rubens, and Van Dyck, among others.
The oldest works date to the 13th century, while the most recent are from the early 20th century.
Non-flash photography is generally permitted, but tripods and selfie sticks are not allowed.
Pinacoteca di Brera Entry Tickets
Pinacoteca di Brera Guided Tour with Brera Neighborhood Walking Tour
Combo (Save 5%): Pinacoteca di Brera Entry with Milan Cathedral, Museum & Terraces Tickets
Combo (Save 5%): Pinacoteca di Brera + Sforza Castle Entry Tickets with Audio Guide
