Did you know that there is an astronomical museum and observatory in Milan?
Walking through the Brera Botanical Garden, many people often look up and notice the presence of a fascinating dome, but not everyone knows what it is.
The Brera Astronomical Observatory (OAB), a world-renowned research institute of excellence, is the oldest scientific institution in Milan.
Since 1946 it has been part of the scientific institutions of the Italian Republic and in 2001 became part of the National Institute of Astrophysics (INAF).
The observatory has been located in Milan’s Brera palace since 1762, the year in which Father Lagrange established professional observational astronomical research in Milan.
The first specola, designed and built by Father Ruggero Boscovich in 1764, underwent transformations to adapt to the observational needs of later periods.
Subsequently, most observational activities were transferred to the second site at Villa San Rocco, in Merate (LC), Brianza, active since 1923.
Research activities are still fully in force at both observatory sites.
It is also home to the Brera Astronomical Museum, which is open to the public and can be visited by appointment.
