Information
Landmark: Granite Street Historic BuildingsCity: Barre
Country: USA Vermont
Continent: North America
Granite Street Historic Buildings, Barre, USA Vermont, North America
The Arco della Pace is a triumphal arch located in Milan, Italy, marking the northwestern entrance to the city's historic center.
Visual Characteristics
Constructed from Candoglia marble, the arch stands 25 meters high and 50 meters wide. It features three arched passages, with the central arch being the largest. The structure is adorned with numerous sculptures, including a quadriga (a chariot drawn by four horses) at the apex, representing the Goddess of Victory.
Location & Access Logistics
The arch is situated at the western end of Parco Sempione, approximately 2.5 kilometers west of the Duomo di Milano. Access is via Viale Sempione. Public transport options include tram lines 1, 12, and 27, which stop near Piazza Sempione. The nearest Metro station is Cadorna (M1 and M2 lines), located about 1 kilometer south. Limited street parking is available in the vicinity, with paid parking garages also accessible.
Historical & Ecological Origin
Construction of the arch began in 1807 under Napoleon Bonaparte's reign as King of Italy, intended to commemorate his victories. It was completed in 1838 under Austrian rule, with its dedication changed to celebrate the Congress of Vienna and the restoration of peace. The architect was Luigi Cagnola.
Key Highlights & Activities
Visitors can observe the detailed sculptural program and the architectural design. The arch serves as a focal point for the surrounding Parco Sempione, offering opportunities for walking and photography. No internal access to the arch is permitted.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available within Parco Sempione. Shade is provided by the trees in the park. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong in the area. Food and beverage vendors are present along the perimeter of Parco Sempione and in the surrounding streets.
Best Time to Visit
For optimal photography lighting, the late afternoon provides favorable angles and illumination on the marble. The months of April through June and September through October offer pleasant weather conditions for outdoor exploration. No tide considerations apply.
Facts & Legends
The original plan for the arch included a statue of Napoleon, but after his fall, the design was altered to represent peace. A lesser-known detail is that the bronze horses atop the arch were originally intended for another monument.
Nearby Landmarks
- Castello Sforzesco (0.8km Southeast)
- Triennale di Milano (0.6km South)
- Parco Sempione (Adjacent)
- Cadorna Station (1km South)
- Santa Maria delle Grazie (1.5km Southwest)