What is it?
Opened in 1933 as the headquarters of the Triennale di Arte Decorativa (Italy’s decorative arts, industrial design and architecture triennial), this classical monumental-style building now houses a design museum. The rich permanent collection showcases the history of Italian design – it’s like a living catalog of the best Italian-made objects.
Why is it worth visiting?
Milan isn’t just Italy’s fashion capital – it’s its design epicentre, too. The Triennale hosts a permanent exhibition of some of Milan’s most iconic furnishings and design objects, as well as an extensive design archive and temporary showcases that span art, films and visual arts. Check its website for its temporary exhibitions.
What else can I see there?
Plus, in the summer, the Triennale’s back garden is buzzing with visitors who come to see the thirteen sculpture works on view, including the dreamlike ‘Mysterious Baths’ fountain by Giorgio de Chirico. You can also admire it with a coffee at the open-air café, where the designer chairs have been plucked from the museum’s collection. If you’re feeling fancy, book a table at the top-floor Terrazza Triennale, a glass-enclosed restaurant overlooking Milan’s skyline and Parco Sempione, where the Triennale is located.
Time Out tip
On the other side of Parco Sempione, almost directly opposite the Triennale, is the Civic Acquarium of Milan. Built for the 1906 Milan World Expo, it is the only surviving building from the event. While the aquarium itself is nothing to write home about, the Liberty-style building is stunning, with sculptural flourishes and tiled compositions portraying marine life.
Address: Viale Emilio Alemagna, 6, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10.30am-8pm. Closed on Mondays
Price: Free to visit. Its temporary exhibitions are ticketed – check its website for prices