Milan's Capuchin Friars Museum Reveals Art and History

The Museo dei Cappuccini in Milan, opened in 2001, preserves the historical and artistic heritage of the Lombard Capuchin province. Directed by art historian Rosa Giorgi, the museum features a permanent collection and temporary exhibitions. Currently, until September 19, it presents "Quel che passa il convento," showcasing two paintings of the Visitation by Camillo Procaccini from the convents of Cerro Maggiore and Milan Monforte. The Capuchins, a Franciscan order originating in the 16th century, are known for their austerity, using humble materials like wood and straw for altars. The museum's collection includes works by Guercino, Ortensio Crespi, Antonio Rossellino's workshop, and Palma il Giovane, as well as a 20th-century section with pieces by Mario Sironi, Umberto Boccioni, and Morbelli from the Giancarlo Rusconi collection. The museum is located at Via Kramer, 5, near Piazza Tricolore, and is part of a complex including the Sacro Cuore church designed by Paolo Mezzanotte and the Opera San Francesco welfare center serving 2,500 meals daily.