Milan's Brera museum finally adds overdue modern art wing

On December 7, 2024, Italy celebrated the long-awaited opening of the Palazzo Citterio, a significant expansion of Milan's Pinacoteca di Brera museum. This addition, first envisioned more than 50 years ago, is designed to showcase one of the world's most vital collections of 20th-century Italian art. The project faced numerous setbacks, including changing priorities and structural issues; however, under the direction of Angelo Crespi, who became the Brera director earlier in the year, a concerted effort was made to expedite the opening process. Crespi emphasized the project's importance, stating that it was not solely about economics but also an ethical commitment to cultural heritage. The new museum space will house hundreds of contemporary artworks donated to the Brera over the years by esteemed art collectors Emilio Jesi and Lamberto Vitali. This collection focuses on Italian painters from the period of the 1930s to the 1960s, highlighting the works of notable artists like Giorgio Morandi, with the hopes of bridging the historical context of the Brera's rich Renaissance and Baroque collections. The significance of this addition is magnified by the fact that the Grande Brera now includes Leonardo da Vinci's iconic “Last Supper,” allowing visitors to experience two of the most important aspects of Italian art within proximity of each other. As Milan positions itself as a premier art city, Crespi advocates that the Grande Brera will serve as a central hub for art narratives, connecting visitors not only to the new modern art collection but also the masterpieces scattered across the city. By spring 2025, plans are set to link the Pinacoteca di Brera with Palazzo Citterio via a passageway, promoting an enriched museum experience that ties historical and contemporary works together in a unified narrative. The timing of this inauguration coincided with significant cultural observances; the Palazzo Citterio opened its doors on the feast day for Milan's patron, St. Ambrose, a decision that was made to underscore the cultural importance of the new addition. Despite the delays and challenges over the decades, the completion of Palazzo Citterio is expected to elevate Milan's status in the art world, presenting the opportunity for visitors to explore Italy's profound contributions to art history. Milan's mayor and current cultural minister celebrated the inauguration and the continuation of a visionary project that honors the past while passionately embracing the future of contemporary art. The twin presence of historic works like “The Last Supper” alongside contemporary pieces provides a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of Italian artistry, reinforcing the assertion that Milan can compete with other art capitals like Florence, Rome, and Venice.