Ambrosius. Il tesoro della Basilica

The Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio was founded in the 4th century at the behest of Bishop Ambrose, on the site of the great necropolis outside Milan’s city walls. The Basilica martyrum, work on which began in 379, is one of the city’s finest examples of late antique art and has, from its very origins, preserved the memory of the martyrs and of Ambrose himself, who was buried here in 397. Over the centuries, it has been enhanced by various interventions, reconstructions and restorations, becoming one of the most significant sites in Milan’s religious, artistic and civic history. After centuries of transformations and restorations, the first Museum of Saint Ambrose was inaugurated in 1949, with the aim of showcasing and making this extraordinary heritage accessible.

In December 2025, “Ambrosius. Il Tesoro della Basilica” opens: a museum dedicated to the figure of Saint Ambrose, a central figure in the history of Milan and late antiquity in Europe. The exhibition brings together relics, textiles, liturgical vestments and archaeological finds in a narrative that explores faith, art and architecture. At its heart is Ambrose, bishop, intellectual and statesman, who was able to combine spiritual vision with civic responsibility, and who remains a guiding light for understanding Milan’s identity to this day.

Ambrosius offers an area dedicated to welcoming visitors and educational activities, featuring a multimedia room, educational activities, workshops and small monastic vegetable gardens inspired by medieval tradition. The experience is designed for a wide and international audience, with guided tours, themed itineraries and programmes for adults, families and schools, engaging with the city and Milan’s rich cultural offering.