In the run up to Expo, the city’s historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II has been given a makeover! The splendid “Living Room” of Milan is gradually rediscovering all of its former splendour, attracting locals and foreigners alike!
With less than 2 months to go, the hype surrounding preparations for the World Fair is building. Amidst renovations and loads of construction work Milan is beginning to unveil its new look!
The value of the project for the renovation of the Galleria is about 3 million euros, but the work is no cost for the local administration as Prada and Versace, and thanks also to a contribution from Feltrinelli, will cover the costs in full.
In perfect keeping with this general makeover, the highly central Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, known to all as “the Living Room of Milan” on account of its elegance and versatility as a meeting place for the Milanese, is gradually regaining its former splendour, thanks to important renovation works which will also see the re-opening of its upper floors with new spaces for exhibitions, events, meetings, bars, cafés and eateries plus exclusive panoramic walkways extending over a surface area of 550 sq.m.
The access route envisages entry from the courtyards of via Silvio Pellico 2/Piazza Duomo 21. After ascending to the upper spaces via two lifts (currently under construction) and crossing a terrace, it will be possible to access the walkway. At the end of the visit, an external lift located in the courtyard will take visitors back down and out through the exit in via Silvio Pellico 8.
In addition to being a stunning feat of architecture, the Galleria can realistically be considered the oldest shopping arcade in the world. Those crossing under its magnificent glass dome are treated to a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. The arcade is lined with several of the world’s most famed and fabled designer stores, workshops steeped in history, landmark restaurants and cafés plus several intriguing, well-stocked bookstores.

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Follow the progress of the renovation works on the official website