Many European cities have built triumphal arches in the past, and Milan is no exception. It boasts the Arco della Pace (Peace Arch), which was built on the site of the ancient Porta Semipone, part of the Roman fortifications of the city in ancient times.

Although Milan's Arch certainly doesn't reach the glory of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, it is still one of the city's main landmarks.

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History and dimensions of the Arch

The Peace Arch began construction in 1807 under Napoleonic rule, but after Milan fell to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, construction was interrupted for a while, but in 1838 the arch was completely finished.

The arch bears features of neoclassical architecture, 25 metres high and decorated with many sculptures and Corinthian columns. Unlike the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, it is not possible to climb to its roof, and there is no observation deck.

How to get to the arch?

The Arco della Pace stands on the north side of the large Sempione Park, which you can walk to from Sforzesco Castle, Milan's leading landmark, in 20 minutes.

The best way to get directly to the arch is by taking tram lines 1 and 10, which stop only about 60 metres from the centre of Piazza Sempione, where the arch stands.