Arch of Peace (Arco della Pace)

The Basics

Arco della Pace stands in the largest green space in the city, Parco Sempione, where Milanese families come to relax, walk their dogs, and picnic. A favorite meeting spot by day, especially in summer, the area is also bustling with life when the sun goes down. Many city tours—including tours by bike, hop-on hop-off bus, Segway, and rickshaw—typically pass by the arch as well as the park and nearby Castello Sforzesco.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Arch of Peace is a must for architecture lovers and history buffs.

• The arch is located in a piazza with little shade, so wear a hat or apply sunscreen during your outing.

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.

How to Get There

The Arch of Peace is located at Piazza Sempione, in the heart of Milan, a 10-minute walk from Castello Sforzesco. To get there by public transit, take tram 1 or 10 to Arco della Pace. The metro will drop you within a 15-minute walk of the arch; take the M5 to Domodossola, the M1 to Cadorna, or the M2 to Lanza.

When to Get There

The arch is open all year round and is busiest during the summer months. Get there early in the morning for pictures without crowds, or come in the evening and enjoy the area’s vibrant nightlife scene after your visit.

The Design of the Arch of Peace

The Arch of Peace was originally built as part of a larger project—a replica of the Roman Forum—to commemorate Napoleon’s victories. After the dictator’s abdication in 1814, the Forum idea was scrapped and the Hapsburgs renamed the arch to honor peace in post-Napoleonic Europe. The neoclassical monument, based on the Arch of Septimius Severus at the Forum in Rome, features Corinthian columns and various bronze sculptures and reliefs depicting events in Italian history.

What is the Arch of Peace in Milan?

The Arch of Peace is one of the most famous landmarks in Milan. Constructed of white marble and topped by bronze statues, this triumphal arch was commissioned by Napoleon to commemorate his victories, but after the dictator’s fall, was renamed to celebrate the Treaty of Paris in 1815.

Is the Arch of Peace located near any other landmarks or attractions in Milan?

Yes, this historic arch is set at the entrance of Sempione Park, one of Milan’s great green spaces. The Sforza Castle—home to Michelangelo’s Rondanini Pietà—sits at the far end of the park, about a 10-minute walk away, and the Branca Tower overlooks the arch from across the green.

Can you climb or enter the Arch of Peace in Milan?

No, the Arch of Peace can only be admired from the surrounding square and green. You can approach the monument to take it in from up close, pass below it to enter or exit Sempione Park, or check out its design from a bird’s-eye perch atop the nearby Branca Tower.

Are there any events or ceremonies held at the Arch of Peace in Milan?

Yes, Piazza Sempione surrounding the Arch of Peace is one of the most popular public spaces for open-air events in the city. Most weekends you can find markets, concerts and performances, festivals, and other events taking place at the base of the arch. It’s also one of the venues for Milano Pride celebrations.

Is the Arch of Peace in Milan illuminated at night?

Yes, this important landmark is dramatically lit at night, making it one of the most striking Milan attractions to photograph after sunset. Keep in mind that Sempione Park closes to the public at night, but Piazza Sempione, surrounding the Arch of Peace, is accessible 24 hours a day.

Is there an entrance fee to visit the Arch of Peace in Milan?

No, the Arch of Peace is free and accessible to the public, as is the surrounding Piazza Sempione and Sempione Park. While the park closes at night in summer and winter, you can approach from the Corso Sempione side of the park to visit the arch after closing time.