Six Milanese churches transformed into cultural venues

Milan, with over 150 churches, sees several repurposed as cultural spaces. The Crypt of San Sepolcro, founded in the 12th century, reopened in 2016 after 50 years of restoration, now hosting exhibitions, theater, and culinary events on ancient Roman streets. The former Church of San Sisto al Carrobbio became the Francesco Messina Foundation, displaying 80 statues and 26 graphic works by the Sicilian artist, plus Leonardo Nava's installation 'Radicamenti' (45 meters of hazel branches). The Church of Santi Teresa e Giuseppe, damaged in WWII, reopened in 2003 as a multimedia library (Media Brera) hosting digital culture events and collaborations with RAI and Piccolo Teatro. The deconsecrated Church of Santi Simone e Giuda now houses Teatro Arsenale (founded 1978 by Marina Spreafico, Kuniaki Ida, Jacques Lecoq), with a 100-seat open space. The Chiostri di Sant'Eustorgio, part of the basilica complex since 2016, currently hosts 'Magnum's First' exhibition (until October 6, curated by Andrea Holzherr). San Paolo Converso (16th century) serves as Locatelli Partners' architecture studio, hosting events like Asad Raza's tennis court installation (2018) and 'Words' exhibition with Allan Kaprow Estate and Hauser & Wirth (until May 25, 2019).