Via Milano is the modern version of the ancient Contrada di Porta Palazzo that used to lead to the northern city gate of Turin. The street forms a link between Piazza Palazzo di Città and this gate. In the 18th century Filippo Juvarra gave the street a major facelift.
Via Milano Turin
Useful information
Via Milano connects Piazza Palazzo di Città (then called Piazza delle Erbe) with the northern city gate. Turn left as you leave the central station and then immediately right into Via XX Settembre. After about one and a half kilometers turn left into Via della Basilica. If you prefer public transportation, take bus 11, 52 or 57 or streetcar 4.
Contrada di Porta Palazzo
At the beginning of the 18th century the Contrada di Porta Palazzo underwent major changes, the most important of which was to make the street straighter. The architect of these works was Filippo Juvarra. The construction was necessitated by the new role of Turin as the capital of the kingdom.
The demolition of several medieval houses was the result of these changes (including the construction of a so-called piazza d’armi, a square where military exercises were held).
On the Piazza della Repubblica side of the street, efforts have been made to keep the architectural unity with this square intact, although there are no arcades.
Tourist attractions
Main attractions in the Via Milano are the Palazzo di Città and the Santa Croce Church.