The monumental cemetery, designed by architect Carlo Maciachini, was built between 1863 and 1866. It was opened to the public on 1st January 1867 and was intended to replace Milan’s old district cemeteries. It later became the graveyard for Milan’s bourgeoisie.

Today, its area of 200,000 square metres (nearly 50 acres) hosts monumental tombs, chapels and statues that illustrate the architecture and sculpture of the late 19th century. The long facade is set around a central octagon, the so-called “Famedio”, from the Latin Famae Aedes (House of Fame), which holds the tombs of the illustrious figures including writers, poets, musicians and artists and famous people…

The richness of the monuments constitutes such an important artistic heritage that the cemetery can be considered a full-fledged museum.

The 2-hours long tour (except on Monday) starts at the entrance of the cemetery and you visit the “Famedio” (House of Fame) the main masterpieces in the garden and you reach the Crematory Temple (no longer in use).