Monumental Cemetery

The cemetery was designed by architect Carlo Maciachini in 1863, and the first burial took place on November 2, 1866. This was the composer Gustavo Noseda, although his body was transferred from another cemetery as he had died a few months earlier. The cemetery officially opened on January 1, 1867.

Burial plots at the cemetery were often purchased in advance for the entire family, a privilege only the wealthy could afford. Therefore, the burials are also significant from a historical perspective, revealing who were the affluent and influential individuals in Milan during various periods.

Today, the necropolis spans approximately 25 hectares of land, located not far from the city center, though it was initially outside the city limits. It was formerly the burial site of wealthy, honored citizens, allowing visitors to see the graves and family tombs of notable individuals such as conductor Arturo Toscanini; painter Francesco Hayez; Gaspare Campari, creator of the world-renowned liqueur Campari and founder of the Gruppo Campari; Angelo Motta, entrepreneur and founder of the company that produced the famous Christmas cake Panettone.

The Monumental Cemetery is divided into three separate areas. The central part is the largest, dedicated to deceased Catholics. The right section is for non-Catholics, and the left for Jewish burials.

One of the most significant structures is the Famedio temple, where distinguished individuals are buried, and the names of people who have contributed to the city's history are engraved. New names are added each year on November 2.

Competing in richness and expressiveness, wealthy Italian families built increasingly grand and expensive mausoleums, resembling cathedrals, Greek temples, Egyptian pyramids, and Gothic chapels. The paths between these buildings are reminiscent of real streets, underscoring why the cemetery is known as "Monumental".

At the entrance, there is an information point where visitors can obtain a map of the Monumental Cemetery, highlighting the most famous tombs. Guided tours are also available. Additionally, to attract more locals and tourists, short film screenings, concerts including jazz, theatrical performances, and themed walks are organized.

The most impressive sculptural composition is a complex based on the theme of The Last Supper, adorning the Campari family tomb.

Another famous monument is the tower on the grave of Senator Antonio Bernocchi, with sculptures of dozens of people seemingly climbing the tower.

The sculptures and tombstones immortalize masterful works by artists such as Butt, Dante Parini, Enrico, and Paolo Troubetzkoy, commissioned by wealthy Italians to create remarkable tombs that continue to amaze tourists strolling through the memorial's alleys.

Today, the cemetery houses both ancient and modern glass family mausoleums. In recent decades, it has become the final resting place for distinguished public figures, clergy, and politicians.