This masterpiece by Baroque architect Francesco Richini conceals magnificent works of art by notable Italian painters from the 16th and 17th centuries.
Tucked along an elegant street in Milan’s Centro Storico, the Chiesa di San Giuseppe (Church of Saint Joseph) is one of a collection of beautiful churches that showcase the city’s religious and artistic importance. Designed in the Baroque style between 1607 and 1630, the elaborate façade of Chiesa di San Giuseppe makes way for an interior adorned with well-preserved frescoes.
Before entering, take a moment to appreciate the exterior of the church, which is considered one of the finest accomplishments of Richini. Typical Baroque ornamentation, such as columns, decorative capitals and pilasters, decorate the facade. Stone carvings of biblical characters stand in the niches, which themselves are crowned by pediments. The church’s octagonal-shaped lantern roof is visible behind the Baroque-style gable.
Inside, huge marble columns frame the nave and altars. Note how the black and white floor pattern has a three dimensional effect. Look for a marble statue of St. Joseph, alongside figures representing chastity and virginity, at the main altar.
Several prominent Italian artists contributed to the decoration of the church. See the Death of Saint Joseph by Giulio Procaccini and a portrayal of the Holy Family by Lanzani. Study Melchiorre Gherardini’s representation of the wedding of the Virgin Mary, called Sposalizio di Maria. There’s also a depiction of a praying St. John the Baptist by Montaldo.
Find the church in the Brera area of the Centro Storico neighborhood. Get here on foot by following Via Brera from the Pinacoteca di Brera, a one-time monastery now home to a revered art collection. The Brera Botanical Garden, Santa Maria del Carmine Church and Teatro alla Scala are other nearby attractions. An alternative way to reach the church is to take the metro line three to Montenapoleone station and then walk from there.
Chiesa di San Giuseppe is open daily and admission is free. Opening hours are shorter on Sundays so plan your visit accordingly.
