About us
Biblioteca Nazionale Braidense – merged in 2015 into the Pinacoteca di Brera museum system under the general direction of James M. Bradburne and, as of March 2022, Marzia Dina Pontone as scientific director – is one of 46 state libraries managed directly by the Ministry of Culture.
Biblioteca Nazionale Braidense
Libraries are resources for meeting the challenges of the present, true “public granaries capable of amassing reserves against the winter of the spirit,” wrote Marguerite Yourcenar.
History of the Library
The history of the Biblioteca Nazionale Braidense begins on October 8, 1770, when Maria Teresa of Austria decided to allocate Count Carlo Pertusati’s library for public use, considering the lack in Milan “of an open library for the common use of those who wish to cultivate their wits more, and acquire new knowledge.”
History of the Palace
The Brera Palace reveals itself as one of the places with the highest density of historical stratification in the city. Built on an ancient 14th-century convent of the Humiliati order and later passed to the Jesuits, who established a school there, it became state property in 1773.
Staff
Biblioteca Nazionale Braidense
Via Brera 28, Milano – Centralino T +39 02 72263401
[email protected] – pec: [email protected]
Discover the Library
The Braidense-which has always fulfilled the role of library of collection, conservation and public reading-is first and foremost a great institution at the free service of the citizens of Milan and anyone interested in its activities. The Library also offers a bibliographic information service for studies and research and organizes events, temporary exhibitions and guided tours to promote and publicize its history and heritage.
Art Bonus
Allows tax deductions of up to 65 percent of the amount donated, to those who make liberal donations in support of Italy’s public cultural heritage.
Support us
Every visitor to the Biblioteca Braidense and the Pinacoteca di Brera deserves an extraordinary experience, which we can also achieve thanks to the support of all of you.