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Church · Milão, Lombardia
Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio
Romanesque basilica founded by Saint Ambrose, patron of Milan, with an arched atrium, the 9th-century golden altar and the saint's crypt.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio
The Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio was founded by Saint Ambrose, bishop of Milan, between 379 and 386, on a cemetery of Christian martyrs. The building seen today is mainly from the 11th and 12th centuries and became a model of Lombard Romanesque architecture, with exposed brick, an atrium surrounded by arches and two towers of different heights.
Inside, the golden altar, made in the 9th century by the goldsmith Vuolvinio, is covered in gold, silver and stones, with scenes from the life of Christ and Saint Ambrose. Above it stands the ciborium, a small canopy supported by columns. In the crypt lie the remains of Saint Ambrose, alongside the martyrs Gervasius and Protasius.
The chapel of San Vittore in Ciel d'Oro preserves 5th-century mosaics, including an ancient portrait of Saint Ambrose. Outside, near the basilica, a Roman column has two holes that legend attributes to the devil's horns.
On December 7, the patron's day, the surrounding streets host the traditional Oh bej! Oh bej! fair, with stalls selling sweets and crafts.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
40 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
In the morning or mid-afternoon, outside Mass times. On December 7 the Saint Ambrose fair livens up the area.
How to get there
Piazza Sant'Ambrogio. Metro M2 (green), Sant'Ambrogio station, a 2-minute walk. It's about a 10-minute walk from the Cenacolo Vinciano.
Tip
Combine your visit with the Cenacolo Vinciano, which is nearby. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter. Respect any ongoing services.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio
Who was Saint Ambrose?
He was bishop of Milão in the 4th century and is the city's patron saint. He founded the basilica and is buried in the crypt.
What is the golden altar?
It is a 9th-century altar made by the goldsmith Vuolvinio, covered in gold, silver and stones, with scenes from the life of Christ and of Saint Ambrose.
Is the basilica near The Last Supper?
Yes, about a 10-minute walk from the Cenacolo Vinciano. You can visit both in the same morning.