A true hidden gem just around the corner from the hotel – this House Museum showcases a couple’s stunning collection of 20th-century Italian art, all in their preserved Art Deco home.
Full description: Tucked on a quiet street near Lima metro station (and less than 10 minutes’ walk from Hotel Aurelia), the Casa Museo Boschi di Stefano is a delightful off-the-beaten-path attraction. This was once the private residence of Antonio Boschi and Marieda di Stefano, passionate art collectors who amassed an extraordinary array of modern Italian art. They generously donated their collection – and apartment – to the city, and today visitors can wander through the actual rooms where they lived, now filled with paintings and sculptures. The experience is intimate and fascinating: you’ll see over 300 works by artists like Fontana, Sironi, De Chirico, and Piero Manzoni, spanning the early to mid-20th century. The setting itself is charming, as the apartment retains its vintage furnishings and beautifully preserved Art Deco details. It feels like stepping back in time and into an art gallery at once.
What makes Casa Boschi di Stefano even more appealing is that entry is completely free (it’s run by the city of Milan). Few tourists discover this place, so you may find yourself nearly alone with the art – a serene contrast to the crowded big museums. Information cards (in Italian and English) explain the significance of the works and the story of the couple who collected them. The museum is usually open Tuesday through Sunday, in the middle of the day (roughly 10am–5:30pm). Check the hours before you go, as it occasionally closes for maintenance or special events. For art lovers, this house-museum is a must, but even the casual traveler will appreciate the personal, authentic feel of exploring a Milanese home turned gallery. Since it’s so close by, it’s easy to fit into your itinerary – perhaps on a morning when you plan to shop Corso Buenos Aires (as it’s right in that area) or if you have a spare hour. Visiting Casa Museo Boschi di Stefano is like uncovering a small secret of Milan – one that many visitors rave about as a highlight for its uniqueness. Don’t miss this gem in Aurelia’s neighborhood
