HIGHLINE Milano shines a spotlight once again on one of the city’s most iconic landmarks: the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Starting in December, tickets can be purchased to access and visit, from 6 February 2026, the completely renewed pathways and spaces of one of the monuments dearest to the people of Milan.
The revitalization project was conceived and led by an Italian team entirely composed of under-35s, following their successful bid in a municipal call for proposals. The project focuses on restoring the panoramic rooftop walkway, which has been closed since 2019, and opening historical areas that have never been accessible to visitors. The initiative is promoted by Duomo 21 S.r.l., in synergy with sponsors (Rossi di Albizzate, L&L Luce&Light, MET Energia Italia and PF Blu Servizi), and partners (Insulti Luminosi and WeShort) each contributing their expertise to craft and create a truly unique visitor experience.
A comprehensive program of conservation-focused restoration accompanied the entire revitalization project, with the aim of enhancing and reopening the historic spaces on the fourth floor of the Galleria, the historic room above the entrance arch, and the large panoramic terrace. These areas, closed for years, underwent a meticulous recovery process designed to preserve their architectural identity while ensuring accessibility and safety, in full respect of their original features.
The mission is to build a welcoming, inclusive space where visitors are not simply spectators but become part of the cultural narrative of this remarkable location.
What’s new for the February 6 reopening
The reopening introduces a fully reimagined experience: one that bridges past, present, and future. The Skywalk, the iconic elevated pathway spanning 250 meters, has been redesigned to enhance the visitor flow and overall experience. This historic route connects Piazza della Scala (“Scala Square”) to Piazza del Duomo (“Cathedral Square”), tracing a path across the rooftops of the Galleria from 40 meters above ground. The new design blends contemporary elements with a curated visual and historical storytelling developed by up-and-coming creative professionals. Another key feature along the promenade is the “Clouds Area”, a series of panoramic terraces enhanced with custom greenery and textile installations.
The most significant element of the relaunch is the Sala degli Orologi (Clock Room), which is opening to the public for the very first time. Historically, this space served as the control room that synchronized Milan’s public clocks in the 1930s. Now, it will become an ArtSpace dedicated to showcasing emerging artists. There, exhibitions, debates, meetings, events, and projects will take place: the inaugural exhibition, curated by Flavio Di Renzo and titled The heart of Milan between past, present and future, will run through May. It features more than 60 archival photographs documenting the evolution of Milan’s urban landscape: from the transformation of Piazza Duomo and the construction of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, to the contemporary metropolis.
The photographic material comes from the Historical Archive of the Touring Club Italiano (ten of the images have been reinterpreted by young artists from the Accademia di Brera, selected through a dedicated contest), as well as from the Civico Archivio Fotografico del Castello Sforzesco (“Sforza Castle”) and the Archivio Storico Intesa Sanpaolo / Publifoto.
A new panoramic glass elevator will provide direct access to the Sala degli Orologi, from which the visitor’s route continues toward the “Rooftop”, a hidden terrace on the monumental façade of the Galleria overlooking the Cathedral.
New generations, local heritage, and sustainability
Every aspect of the HIGHLINE Milan project has been thoughtfully shaped around three core pillars:
- New generations: the project is envisioned, curated and managed by a young team committed to returning a historic site to its community while enriching it with contemporary cultural content;
- Local heritage: HIGHLINE Milano highlights the work of Italian artists, artisans, and creative talents;
- Sustainability: eco-design principles guide the creation of custom green micro-oases, low-impact solutions, and solar panel installations along the route.
A young and dynamic team
The HIGHLINE Milano project, made possible by Duomo 21 S.r.l., stems from the vision of a young and dynamic under-35 team composed of Matteo Occhipinti, Franck Pascal, Camilla Rivieri and Flavio Di Renzo. Matteo and Franck, the two Heads of the project, lead operations in creative direction, finance, and personnel management. Camilla serves as General Director, while Flavio, Art Director and Curator, is responsible for designing and producing the exhibitions hosted inside the Sala degli Orologi.
Ticketing details
Starting from December 2025, tickets for dates beginning on February 6, 2026 can be purchased on the official HIGHLINE Milano website and on TicketOne. Three different ticket types are available: Individual Visit, Guided Tour, and Gift Card – Open Date. Dedicated rates are provided for individual tickets.
