Landmark
Monument of the Five Days of Milan
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The Monument of the Five Days of Milan (Monumento alle Cinque Giornate di Milano) stands proudly in Piazza Cinque Giornate, a bustling square in central Milan. Erected in 1895, this landmark commemorates the five-day rebellion (March 18-22, 1848) when Milanese citizens rose against Austrian rule, a pivotal event in the Italian unification movement. The monument features a central obelisk topped with a bronze allegorical figure representing Italy, surrounded by sculptures of the five key figures of the uprising. The base is adorned with reliefs depicting scenes of the revolt, including women and children participating, highlighting the widespread popular support. Visitors can walk around the monument, reading the inscriptions that honor the fallen. The square itself is a lively intersection, with trams and traffic swirling around the monument, but it remains a poignant reminder of Milan's fight for freedom. What makes this monument distinctive is its powerful symbolism and the emotional weight it carries for locals, it's not just a tourist attraction but a site of civic pride. A visit here offers a moment of reflection amidst the city's modern hustle.
Don't miss
- Examine the bronze reliefs depicting scenes from the uprising
- Read the names of the fallen inscribed on the base
- Photograph the central obelisk and the allegorical figure of Italy
- Observe the five bronze figures representing the leaders of the revolt
- Visit the nearby Porta Vittoria gate, another historical site
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Monument of the Five Days of Milan
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Monument of the Five Days of Milan with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inEntrance to the Leonardo da Vinci Science and Technology Museum4.2★ · 105 travelers1–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$15 per personSee dates →
Most bookedMilan Duomo & The Last Supper Skip-the-Line Small Group Tour4.6★ · 2,991 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$161 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleMilan Highlights And Hidden Gems Private Walking Tour4.7★ · 143 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$75 per personSee dates →Know before you go
- Accessible 24/7 as it's an outdoor monument.
- Combine with a walk to Porta Vittoria or the nearby Giardini Pubblici.
- Read up on the Five Days of Milan history to fully appreciate the monument.
- Be careful of trams and traffic when crossing the square.
A bit of history
The monument was designed by sculptor Giuseppe Grandi and inaugurated in 1895 to honor the heroes of the Five Days of Milan (1848), when citizens revolted against Austrian occupation. The uprising lasted five days and resulted in a temporary victory, inspiring the broader Italian unification movement.
Common questions
Is there an entrance fee?
No, it's a free outdoor monument.
What are the opening hours?
It's always open as it's in a public square.
How long should I spend here?
About 15-30 minutes is enough to see the monument and read the inscriptions.
Is it near other attractions?
Yes, it's close to Porta Vittoria, the Giardini Pubblici, and a short walk from the Duomo.
Can I take photos?
Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged.
What is the significance of the five figures?
They represent the five key leaders of the 1848 uprising, though some are allegorical.
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