MUDEC - Museo delle Culture di Milano

MUDEC, Milan’s Museum of Cultures, occupies the former Ansaldo industrial site in the Tortona district. Designed by David Chipperfield and opened in 2015, it brings together the city’s ethno-anthropological collections, research spaces and temporary exhibitions.

Why it matters

The museum preserves and interprets the ethno-anthropological heritage of the City of Milan. Its permanent collections present objects from Africa, Asia, the Americas and Oceania, while its institutional model combines municipal stewardship with the exhibition work of 24 ORE Cultura.

What to notice

The building is organized around the agora, a large central hall with faceted glazing; a 300-seat auditorium, library, restoration workshop and collections spaces form part of the complex. In the permanent galleries, objects from Africa, Asia, the Americas and Oceania are presented in thematic settings that connect the collections with contemporary perspectives. The Donor Gallery hosts installations that place collection materials in dialogue with present-day work.

Context and history

The City of Milan conceived the museum project in 1999 as part of the recovery of the former Ansaldo industrial site. David Chipperfield Architects won the design competition, and the museum opened in 2015. The Municipality is responsible for conservation and research, while 24 ORE Cultura organizes temporary exhibitions and related services. MUDEC has become a cultural institution in the former industrial area of Tortona.