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Torre Velasca (Velasca Tower)
A brutalist gem towering over the heart of Milan.
Situated in the center of Milan, not far from the famous Duomo, is a less renowned but equally impressive architectural monster. The Torre Velasca was designed by renowned architectural group BBPR and constructed in 1958, and stands well over 300 feet (100 meters) tall. It has a peculiar mushroom-like shape, designed to resemble a medieval tower in homage of the city’s medieval history.
The tower is a great example of Brutalist architecture, which, despite being in vogue at the time of the building’s construction, has recently fallen out of fashion. The Torre Velasca, also known as the “skyscraper with straps” among the Milanese, has been labeled by some as “the world’s ugliest building”; however, to others, this building maintains a strange sense of beauty.
The building resembles a structure seen in a dystopian science fiction film and stands out amid the city skyline. In 2011, the tower was declared a national monument.
Know Before You Go
The tower is located in the city center of Milan near the Duomo and the University of Milan headquarters.
One of the exits of the Missori metro station is located right in front of the building. You can get a great view of the tower from the Duomo rooftop tour and can see how much the building towers over central Milan.
There is no public access to the tower; however, it is possible to book apartment accommodations inside.
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