Around Milan: Exploring Piazza Missori

Piazza Missori is an often-overlooked area of Milan where offices, residences, and historic shops coexist, hiding small gems that deserve a closer look.

Located just steps from the Duomo, Piazza Missori is often seen as just a simple place to quickly pass through, but it actually has much more to offer. The eclectic mix of buildings lining the square offers a glimpse into various eras, revealing interesting stories about Milan's past that are well worth discovering.

The square is named after Colonel Giuseppe Missori, the hero who rescued Garibaldi at Milazzo in 1860. At its center stands an equestrian statue, crafted in 1916 by Riccardo Ripamonti. On closer inspection, you can see the horse looks remarkably weary, symbolizing the hardships endured in battle.

History and fun facts

During the Roman era, Piazza Missori was an important residential district of ancient Mediolanum. Wealthy domus (homes) stood here, and it was upon the ruins of one of these that the Basilica of San Giovanni in Conca was built. The church's crypt hid a stunning polychrome floor mosaic, now preserved at the Archaeological Museum. A rare Lombard tomb slab featuring unique Early Christian painting was also found nearby and is currently on display at the Sforza Castle.

Moving to the 1300s, Bernabò Visconti made the square his home, annexing the church as his private chapel. Upon his death, his nephew Gian Galeazzo restored the church's independence and added the churchyard.

Over the centuries, the square was expanded and modified, but its most radical transformation occurred after World War II. The church was demolished to create the Missori-Albricci road axis, paving the way for new architectural developments in the area. Standing out among these is the Torre Velasca, the iconic Brutalist skyscraper designed by Studio BBPR (1956–1958), which has since become a defining symbol of the Milanese skyline.

What to see in Piazza Missori

Without a doubt, the first thing to catch your eye is the fragment of the ancient red-brick apse of San Giovanni in Conca, which today serves as a rather unique traffic island. A marking on the pavement shows just how far the original building once extended.

A small staircase leads down to the crypt, which is open to visitors and holds over a millennium of history. It is a rare example of a Romanesque crypt in Milan, preserving both Roman and Medieval artifacts within its walls.

Moving towards the Missori monument, you can admire the former Convent of the Barnabites, the square’s sole surviving ancient structure. This imposing 17th-century brick palace, once home to the Beccaria High School, now houses a department of the University of Milan (Statale).

More modern structures include Palazzo Meroni between Corso Italia and Corso di Porta Romana, featuring an extraordinary blend of Liberty and Rococo styles. Just a little further on, the massive building housing the Hotel Cavalieri features a beautiful curved façade with sculptures depicting four scenes of life.

Directly opposite rises Palazzo INPS, a commanding building designed during the Fascist era by architect Marcello Piacentini. While the exterior features decorative sculptures, the interior hides a monumental spiral staircase.

Take note of these addresses

History aside, Piazza Missori features some excellent addresses for food and shopping.

For an aperitivo with a view, The Roof, the terrace at Hotel dei Cavalieri, offers one of the best panoramas in the city.

For a quick lunch, the Civelli family deli has been a local staple for over 60 years, while just steps away, Rabbit Hole offers a sweet break in true Alice in Wonderland style.

Nearby, Exit by Michelin-starred chef Perdomo is perfect for a gourmet experience. Alternatively, if you’re craving international flavours, Gastronomia Yamamoto serves up authentic Japanese dishes.

Finally, shopping here is a journey through time, featuring historic signs and high craftsmanship. You can find everything from fine knitwear at Città di Londra 1949 to exquisite knives at Fratelli Lorenzi, vintage accessories at Viganò 1919, and delicious sweets at Pasticceria Galli.

Transportation

To reach Piazza Missori, simply hop on the M3 Yellow line and get off at the Missori. Be sure to look for the remains of the ancient Roman Decumanus Maximus road visible in the station's mezzanine.

The area is also well-connected with trams and buses, including line 19 (which goes to Lambrate Station) and line 16 (which takes you to San Siro Stadium). A bike-sharing station is also available right in the square.

The real estate market in Milan's Piazza Missori

From a real estate perspective, Piazza Missori offers a prime central location featuring a mix of commercial spaces and residential buildings, mostly dating back to the 1950s and 70s.

The area is home to financial firms and major corporations like Meta, as well as Deloitte, which will be moving its offices to nearby Corso Italia later this year.

It is also a magnet for luxury hotels. In addition to the historic Hotel Cavalieri, the neighborhood has seen the arrival of the Radisson Collection Palazzo Touring Club and is preparing for the opening of a Marriott Edition Hotel, both located just steps from Piazza Missori.