Pirelli HangarBicocca Milan
A former Pirelli factory transformed into a vast contemporary art space, featuring monumental installations and free admission.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Pirelli HangarBicocca Milan
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A former Pirelli factory transformed into a vast contemporary art space, featuring monumental installations and free admission.
"Free admission to monumental art in a stunning industrial space – a Milanese must-see!"
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy world-class contemporary art without an entry fee. A true gem for art lovers!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast space and installations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Seven Heavenly Palaces and the One Heavenly Column
Navigli District
Anselm Kiefer's monumental installation of seven towering structures, evoking a sense of awe and history.
I Sette Palazzi Celesti
Main Exhibition Hall
Explore Kiefer's colossal concrete towers, a powerful and unforgettable artistic statement within the vast industrial space.
Temporary Exhibitions
Various Galleries
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art through diverse and thought-provoking temporary shows that change regularly.
Bruce Nauman: Neons Corridors Rooms
Main Exhibition Hall
An immersive experience with light and sound installations by the renowned artist Bruce Nauman.
Planning Your Visit
Free Art & Industrial Charm
Getting There & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy world-class contemporary art without an entry fee. A true gem for art lovers!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast space and installations.
⏰ Check Exhibition Schedule
Exhibitions rotate, so check their website for what's on before you go.
📍 Plan Your Transport
It's a bit outside the center, so factor in travel time via metro or tram.
5 days 4 nights in Milan. Any recommendations?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy world-class contemporary art without an entry fee. A true gem for art lovers!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast space and installations.
⏰ Check Exhibition Schedule
Exhibitions rotate, so check their website for what's on before you go.
📍 Plan Your Transport
It's a bit outside the center, so factor in travel time via metro or tram.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Pirelli HangarBicocca for its impressive scale, free admission, and thought-provoking contemporary art exhibitions. The monumental installations, particularly Anselm Kiefer's, are frequently highlighted as awe-inspiring. Some visitors note its location requires a bit of travel from the city center, but the unique experience is widely considered worth the journey.
"By far the best place we visited in Milan. An enormous industrial space turned into a modern art gallery that can house large scale art installations. Interesting and thought-proviking pieces were on display. The building itself is also awesome, the inner units are cleverly organised and the staff is prepared and kind. There is a really nice "bistrot" in the building, which is also worth a visit. If anybody has any connection to modern art, this place is a must-see."
Noemi Házmán
"Free admission, but tickets must be booked online. Located next to the mall, this art exhibition is a hidden gem that's definitely worth a visit!!"
Pop Hong
"This new exhibition is incredibly goood!! The interaction with the tunnel is also such a cool experience to have."
Donald
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pirelli HangarBicocca is accessible via public transport. Take Metro Line M5 (Lilac) to the 'Ponale' station, which is a short walk away. Alternatively, tram line 5 stops nearby.
No, it's located in the northern part of Milan, in the Bicocca district, a former industrial area. It's easily reachable by public transport but not within the immediate historic center.
From Milano Centrale, take Metro Line M2 (Green) to Garibaldi FS, then transfer to Metro Line M5 (Lilac) towards Bignami and alight at Ponale. From Cadorna, take Metro Line M1 (Red) to Zara, then transfer to Metro Line M5 (Lilac) to Ponale.
Limited parking may be available, but it's generally recommended to use public transportation due to its accessibility and to avoid potential parking hassles.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Milan and can be a convenient option to reach Pirelli HangarBicocca, especially if traveling in a group.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Pirelli HangarBicocca is completely free! This makes it an accessible and popular destination for art enthusiasts.
Opening hours typically are from Thursday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and on Mondays from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information, especially regarding holidays.
Yes, Pirelli HangarBicocca is usually open on Mondays, offering an additional day to visit its exhibitions.
Since admission is free, advance booking is generally not required. However, for special events or very popular exhibitions, it's advisable to check the website for any specific entry requirements.
Pirelli HangarBicocca often hosts special events, talks, and sometimes guided tours. Check their official website's 'Events' section for details and booking information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The permanent installation 'I Sette Palazzi Celesti' (The Seven Heavenly Palaces) by Anselm Kiefer is a major highlight. Also, don't miss any temporary exhibitions, which are always a draw.
To fully appreciate the permanent installations and at least one temporary exhibition, plan for 2-3 hours. If you're an art enthusiast, you might want to spend longer.
While it's a contemporary art space, children can appreciate the scale of installations like Kiefer's towers. It's best for older children who can engage with the art.
Yes, HangarBicocca provides restrooms and usually has a cafe or bar area where you can relax and grab a refreshment.
Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas or for specific exhibitions. Always check signage.
📸 📸 Photography
The sheer scale of Anselm Kiefer's 'I Sette Palazzi Celesti' offers dramatic photo opportunities. The vast industrial architecture itself is also very photogenic.
No, drone photography is strictly prohibited inside the exhibition spaces for safety and to avoid disturbing other visitors.
While personal photography is usually permitted, commercial photography or professional shoots may require prior authorization. Always check the venue's policy.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the grandeur of the installations and the architecture. A versatile zoom lens can also be useful for details.
Tripods are often restricted in art galleries to prevent obstruction and potential damage. It's best to check the specific rules for HangarBicocca before your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific children's activity areas, the vastness of the space allows kids to move around (respectfully, of course) and explore. It's a great opportunity to spark conversations about art, history, and the transformation of industrial spaces. Remember to check the current exhibitions, as some might be more engaging for younger audiences than others.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts on a Budget
Given its location slightly outside the city center, it's a perfect addition to an itinerary that balances iconic landmarks with more off-the-beaten-path cultural gems. The quality and scale of the exhibitions, both permanent and temporary, rival those of many paid museums, offering exceptional value.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Anselm Kiefer at HangarBicocca
The installation is not just about the physical structures but also the dialogue they create with the surrounding architecture and the viewer. The raw materials and imposing presence evoke a sense of both ancient ruins and futuristic monuments. It’s a space that encourages contemplation and personal interpretation, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the Hangar.
Beyond the permanent collection, HangarBicocca consistently hosts cutting-edge temporary exhibitions by leading contemporary artists from around the globe. These shows offer a dynamic and ever-changing experience, ensuring that repeat visits can reveal entirely new artistic perspectives. The venue's commitment to showcasing diverse artistic practices makes it a vital hub for contemporary art in Milan.
Navigating the Industrial Heritage
Visitors often remark on the impressive scale of the former factory, noting how the art installations interact with the industrial architecture. The sheer volume of the space allows for large-scale works that might not be possible in more conventional galleries. This blend of industrial heritage and contemporary creativity is a key part of the HangarBicocca experience, offering a glimpse into Milan's manufacturing past while celebrating its vibrant art scene.
Exploring the Hangar allows you to appreciate how these industrial spaces have been repurposed to foster creativity and public engagement. It’s a testament to the evolving urban landscape and the potential for cultural institutions to breathe new life into historical sites. The raw, unadorned aesthetic of the building complements the often bold and experimental nature of the art displayed within.
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