The Padiglione d’Arte Contemporanea (Contemporary Arts Pavilion)is Milan’s premier contemporary art gallery, recognized for the excitingtemporary exhibitions it hosts. See painting, photography, sculpture and videowork from artists around the world. The pavilion is a destination for both artand architecture lovers, as the building itself is an excellent example of 1950sItalian architecture.

The gallery has played a central role in the Italian artcommunity since opening in 1954. Milan has long been known for its importantcollections of art, but until the mid-20th century there were few largecollections dedicated to contemporary work. The Contemporary Arts Pavilion wasbuilt in the 1950s to fill that gap.

The 12,916-square-foot (1,200-square-meter) gallery wasdesigned by architect Ignazio Gardella. Take your time wandering through the openand modern space. Gaze through the large windows that overlook a series of lakesin the garden. The wide hallways and high ceilings provide a spaciousenvironment different from anything else in Milan. After the building waspartially destroyed by a Mafia-related explosion in 1993, it was entirelyreconstructed by Gardella and his son.

Learn about the current movements within contemporary art atthe pavilion. The gallery dedicates itself to education through a range ofactivities. As the only large-scale gallery dedicated to contemporary art, andwithout a permanent collection, the Contemporary Arts Pavilion is a great placeto be introduced to new artistic movements. Join a free guided tour on Sundayevening or read through the paper guide included with admission as you walkthrough the gallery. A full program of the exhibitions and events is availableon the website.

The Contemporary Arts Pavilion is located in downtown Milanand can be reached by bus, tram or metro. Visitors arriving by car will findstreet parking for a fee in the area. The gallery is open daily and there is anadmission fee.