Ancient Milan Private Guided Tour with PhD Archeologist

Highlights

• Expert Local Guide
• Private Walking Tour
• 3.5-Hour Duration

What's included

Itinerary

1. 1

   Ruderi del Circo Romano

   20min

   The Circus ruins, located near the city center, are a fascinating starting point for the tour. Visitors typically spend around 20-25 minutes here, taking in the remnants of the grand arena that once hosted chariot races. The site is open-air, so visitors can freely explore the ancient foundations and learn about the Circus's historical significance. Informative plaques and exhibits on-site provide essential context about the role of this structure in Roman Milan. The time spent here allows you to reflect on how crucial public spectacles like chariot races were for Roman culture.

2. 2

   Imperial Palace Maximian

   25min

   The Imperial Palace ruins offer a deeper look into the Roman administrative and political heart of Milan. Here, you'll spend approximately 30 minutes, where you can explore the remnants of the palace's walls, courtyards, and baths. Although much of the original structure is lost, the foundations, combined with informative plaques, help visitors imagine the grandeur of the palace and its role in the governance of the Western Roman Empire. You’ll have the chance to reflect on how this site once housed emperors and their courts, providing a significant insight into ancient Milan.

3. 3

   Porta Ticinese

   20min

   Porta Ticinese is one of the most iconic ancient gates of Milan, dating back to the 1st century BC. You'll spend about 20-25 minutes at this significant historical monument. The gate served as an entrance to the city and remains a tangible connection to Milan's Roman past. Visitors can stand at the base of the gate and admire its structure, reflecting on its importance in the context of Roman military and trade activities. The surrounding area also offers an opportunity to explore Milan’s modern vibrancy, providing a striking contrast with the ancient past.

4. 4

   Basilica San Lorenzo Maggiore

   30min

   The Basilica di San Lorenzo, built on the site of a Roman structure, is one of Milan's most beautiful and historically significant churches. Visitors typically spend around 30-40 minutes here. The church features remarkable Roman columns, which are the main attraction for those interested in ancient Milan. You can explore the basilica’s interior, with its early Christian mosaics and frescoes, while also reflecting on the evolution of Milan from Roman paganism to Christianity. The time spent here allows for a deeper appreciation of the architectural and religious significance of the site.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   45min

   The Archaeological Museum is the final stop on the tour and an essential place for understanding Milan's Roman and medieval past. You’ll typically spend 45-50 minutes here, allowing you time to explore the extensive collection of Roman artifacts, including statues, pottery, and inscriptions. The museum’s exhibits offer a detailed overview of Milan’s history, providing context to the sites you’ve visited earlier. The museum’s highlights include a series of Roman statues, and its collection of everyday items from ancient Milan allows for a unique insight into life during the Roman Empire. Visitors also have the chance to see medieval artifacts, which help to complete the historical narrative.

Before you go

Location