Milan's Pinacoteca Ambrosiana and Crypt of San Sepolcro Free for Residents in August

From August 6 to 31, 2026, the Veneranda Biblioteca Ambrosiana in Milan is offering free admission to its Pinacoteca and the Crypt of San Sepolcro for all residents of the city. The initiative aims to make these cultural treasures more accessible to locals, with extended Saturday hours for the Pinacoteca until 10 PM. Non-residents can enter at a reduced price, while all visitors over 65 enjoy free access throughout the period. The Pinacoteca, founded in 1618 by Cardinal Federico Borromeo, houses masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, Raphael, Botticelli, Titian, and others, along with historical curiosities like Napoleon's gloves from Waterloo and a lock of Lucrezia Borgia's hair. The Crypt of San Sepolcro, a subterranean church dating to 1030, was reopened in 2016 after 50 years and underwent a restoration completed in 2019, revealing medieval frescoes. Secretary General Antonello Grimaldi emphasized the desire to return these works to the Milanese people, stating that museums must break down elitist barriers and become places for everyone. The initiative is part of a broader effort to engage the city with its artistic heritage.