Ca' Granda

In form, a paradigmatic example of the Lombard Renaissance, and in function, the home of the arts, history, and law faculties of Milan university. Ca' Granda was conceived in the 15th century by Francesco Forza to bring more than 30 of the city's minor hospitals under one roof, and it also served as a refuge for the poor and sick. The architect, Antonio Averlino (better known as il Filarete) sought to make the building part of his plan to transform the city into a Renaissance gem able to compete with the grandiosity of Florence. The terracotta façade, decorated with Expressionist stone busts, is one of the few in Milan to survive from the 1400s. The Cortile Maggiore (Great Courtyard) is graced with extensive porticos and baroque loggia, and required heavy restoration after World War II. You don't have to be a student to stroll the grounds, and once peacefully within the storied walls, it will be hard to believe you are still in the urban heart of Milan.