A Hidden Gem in Milan You Don’t Want to Miss

The original ancestor of European bone churches, it’s incredibly moving; the moment you see it, you might even feel like crying 😢. This place is a must-recommend!! Many people only know the Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) and end up missing the Bone Church of Milan, located not too far from the Duomo. ⛪️: Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa The entrance is super hidden and discreet, with no signs or publicity. It’s a quiet spot with very few visitors, but once inside, everyone falls silent naturally. This church is famous for its unique bone decorations, which create a small ossuary chapel. Built in 1145, it originally served a hospital and cemetery. In 1210, due to lack of burial space, a room was constructed to store bones, and a chapel was built beside it. In 1679, the chapel was significantly renovated by architect Giovanni Andrea Biffi, who adorned the ossuary walls with human skulls and bones 🦴. After a fire destroyed the original church in 1712, a larger one was built to accommodate the increasing interest in the ossuary. This new church, dedicated to Saint Bernardino of Siena, was completed in 1776. The best part? Admission is free! And it’s just a short walk from the Milan Cathedral. Definitely worth a visit! 🙌 Also, if you’re in the area, I have to recommend a fantastic restaurant nearby. It’s been around for 48 years, and it’s a favorite among locals! The pizza and steak are delicious—just skip the chicken cutlet 😅. #MilanBoneChurch #SanBernardinoBoneChurch #HistoricalArchitecture #Italy