The picturesque Lombardy town of Gallarate is located at the foot of the Alps and is renowned for its Gothic architecture, rich art scene, and exquisite cuisine. One of the main attractions is the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta – a 13th-century church with stunning Gothic architecture. Piazza Garibaldi is a bustling hub of locals and tourists, creating a vibrant atmosphere in the city. The Maga Museum, a contemporary art museum showcasing the work of renowned Italian and international artists, is also worth visiting.
The Ticino Park nature reserve, which surrounds Gallarate, offers lush forests, meandering rivers, and diverse wildlife, making it an excellent place for hiking and other activities. It’s also worth noting that Lombardy is renowned for its vineyards and wine heritage.
Location
Gallarate is in the province of Varese and the Lombardy region. Located in northern Italy, it is part of the Milan metropolitan area.
Museo MAGA ( Maga Museum)
MAGA is one of the most important museums of contemporary art in Italy. MAGA presents permanent collections that offer opportunities to discover Italy’s artistic heritage. Through exhibitions, conferences, training courses, workshops for schools of all levels, and special projects dedicated to children and families, it sponsors and supports the cultural development of those participating in its activities, fostering greater attention to personal tastes, expressive potential, and social awareness.
As a meeting place and a place for cultural development, the MAGA Museum also engages in dialogue with industry representatives, associations, and individuals, making its rooms and spaces available for conferences, meetings, previews, and gala evenings.
Basilica of Saint Mary of the Assumption
The Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption was built in the 16th century and is a magnificent example of architecture reflecting different periods. Upon first glance, the exterior boasts Renaissance and Baroque elements, which have survived to this day.
The large and beautiful basilica’s interior is adorned with high ceilings and intricate frescoes. The apse and nave combine classical and Baroque influences. A magnificent altar, adorned with gold accents, is the focal point. A majestic dome crowns this beautiful structure.
Museum of Patri Studies
Founded in the former part of a 13th-century monastery, its collection includes prehistoric artifacts from the pre-Roman necropolis of Golasecca and other pre-Roman and Roman tombs in Gallarate, Cassano Magnago, and other nearby towns.
The Gallarate Museum displays a collection of art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, including works by renowned artists. The collection also includes two medieval sculptures from Cairat.
Chiesa di San Zenone (Church of San Zenone)
The parish church in Sale Marasino is dedicated to the patron saint of fishermen and is beautifully decorated with marvelous 18th-century architecture. It underwent another radical renovation; in 1897, the old bell tower was demolished, and the current, tall one was built in its place.
Biblioteca Civica Luigi Majno (Luigi Majno Civic Library)
The “Luigi Majno” Municipal Library in Gallarate is a public library in the heart of the city. Founded in 1867, it offers a rich collection of books, periodicals, and digital resources. The library is housed in a building dating back to the early 20th century. It hosts a variety of events, workshops, and exhibitions; come and discover the rich history and culture of Gallarate.
Ticino Park
Ticino National Park is one of Italy’s most beautiful green spaces. Explore the river and its valley, forests, villages, and towns in this picturesque regional park. Hike, bike, kayak, or horseback to explore the oldest park in the country.
