Milano is a world-leading city for contemporary art with several dedicated cultural venues, of which Hangar Bicocca is one of the most intriguing. If one considers that admission is always free it will be hard to find a better destination to delve deep into the awesome creative power of contemporary artists.

Hangar Bicocca is situated within the ex-Ansaldo Group warehouses, which originally produced coils for train electric engines: the 7,000 square metres have now been transformed into a spectacular exhibition space where the historical heritage of a former factory converses with the creativity of contemporary artists and architects.

The cavernous interior is completely painted dark blue and the exterior is cladded with a silver metal shell: still, the structure has preserved its industrial architectural features.

One work in epic scale is a permanent exhibit: The Seven Heavenly Palaces by German artist Anselm Kiefer. Seven imposing towers, made in reinforced concrete from shipping containers’ angular construction modules and weighing 90 tons each, rise to heights varying between 14 and 18 metres. They are positioned within the immense former plant area and flanked by large canvases, which enrich and expand the installation.

The remaining available exhibition space is dedicated to temporary exhibitions (again, free of charge) featuring the most important artists of recent years. All the exhibitions and events presented and curated by Hangar Bicocca focus on research and experimentation, with particular emphasis on the creation of site-specific projects that dialogue with the unique characteristics of this venue. 

Hangar Bicocca also organises an extensive calendar of collateral events and workshops dedicated to children. A space to experience, immersed in beauty. 

If you are into contemporary art and look for other dedicated exhibition venues in the city, we suggest: Fondazione Prada, Museo del Novecento, City Life park and the unique site-specific light installation by Dan Flavin at the Chiesa Rossa.