History of Asylums, Spiritism and Mental Health in Milan.

This experience made our article of 10 Of The Best Historical Tours In Bologna.

Discover the Hidden Stories of Milan’s Asylums, Spiritism, and Mental Health

Imagine walking through Milan’s historic streets and uncovering a side of the city that many visitors overlook—the fascinating and sometimes eerie history of mental health treatment and the spiritualist movements of the 19th century. For about 1.5 hours, this guided tour takes you on an intriguing journey, visiting iconic locations like Ospedale Maggiore, Europe’s first modern hospital, along with historic sites such as the Foppone cemetery, the majestic Palazzo Sormani, and the picturesque Guastalla Gardens.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines history, human stories, and mystery in a way that’s both educational and engaging. The guides are licensed experts, offering insights that make the past come alive—without overwhelming you with academic jargon. Plus, the tour is suitable for the whole family, making it a great way to learn about Milan’s lesser-known history while having fun.

That said, if you’re particularly sensitive to topics related to mental health or spiritualism, this tour might touch on some intense aspects. Also, since it’s a 90-minute walk, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of strolling and standing. Overall, if you’re curious about the intersections of science, human emotion, and spirituality in Milan, this tour offers a uniquely compelling perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Who is this tour ideal for?

History buffs who enjoy stories about medicine, psychiatry, and spiritualism will find it fascinating. It’s also perfect for travelers interested in Milan’s cultural layers beyond the usual. Families with older children or teens curious about human psychology and history will appreciate the mix of educational content and storytelling.

Key Points

• Unique Focus: This tour explores Milan’s lesser-known history of mental health treatment, asylums, and spiritualism.
• Expert Guides: Led by licensed professionals who bring history to life with detailed and engaging stories.
• Landmark Visits: Includes Ospedale Maggiore, the Foppone cemetery, Palazzo Sormani, and Guastalla Gardens.
• Educational & Fun: Designed to be family-friendly, blending learning with entertainment.
• Duration & Flexibility: Lasts 90 minutes, with checkable start times and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible.

Exploring Milan’s Hidden Side: A 90-Minute Journey Into History

Milan might be best known for its fashion, art, and business, but behind its sleek surfaces lies a compelling story about mental health, spiritualism, and medical progress. This guided tour, led by experienced guides, invites you to step into the past and see how perceptions of madness, healing, and spiritual beliefs intertwined in the city’s history.

The Route: A Walk Through Past and Present

The tour begins in front of the State University Entrance on Via Festa del Perdono, a quiet spot that hints at Milan’s academic and historical significance. From here, you’ll stroll through the city, visiting landmarks that have played vital roles in Milan’s medical and social history.

One of the highlights is Ospedale Maggiore, which holds the distinction of being Europe’s first modern hospital. Visiting its grounds gives you a tangible connection to the progress of medical science and the evolving approach to mental health care. Our guide explained the hospital’s transformation from early asylums into more humane treatment centers, giving us a clearer picture of how attitudes have changed over centuries.

Next, the tour takes you to the Foppone cemetery, an evocative site where many of Milan’s mentally ill were laid to rest, often in unmarked graves. Our guide shared stories that humanized those buried there, emphasizing how society’s view of mental health has shifted from shame and fear to understanding and compassion.

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Stories of Madness and Great Minds

What truly elevates this experience are the stories of famous figures and pioneers in psychiatry who either challenged conventions or contributed to understanding the human mind. The narrative also explores the connection between psychiatry and spiritualism, a movement that gained traction in the 19th century. During that time, many believed that spirits and mental ailments were linked, leading to experiments and beliefs that shaped treatments and perceptions.

The guides are especially skilled at weaving science, human emotion, and mystery into stories that captivate. One review summarized it nicely, stating, “We loved the way the guides explained complex ideas simply and kept the whole group engaged.” Their knowledgeable commentary makes these stories accessible to all, from history buffs to casual curiosity seekers.

Additional Landmarks: Palaces and Gardens

The tour also includes Palazzo Sormani, a grand building that once housed Milan’s intellectual elite, and the Guastalla Gardens, a serene escape where a scandalous affair involving the Countess took place. These sites add layers of social history and romance to the narrative, enriching the experience beyond just medical history.

The Value of a Guided Experience

While some might prefer exploring Milan independently, the benefit of joining a guided tour like this is the depth of knowledge and context the guides provide. The stories behind each site, especially about mental health practices and spiritualist beliefs, are far more impactful when narrated by someone who knows the history intimately.

Practical Details & What You Can Expect

• Duration: The 90-minute tour is a perfect snapshot of Milan’s lesser-known history, with enough time to enjoy the sites without feeling rushed.
• Start Point: Meeting in front of the State University Entrance on Via Festa del Perdono ensures easy access and a central location.
• Language: The tour is conducted in Italian, so non-Italian speakers should consider this when booking.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for more visitors.
• Cost & Cancellation: With free cancellation up to 24 hours before, you can reserve confidently, and the cost reflects the value of expert guides sharing stories you won’t find in guidebooks.

What’s Included?

You’ll visit iconic landmarks, hear detailed stories about madness, spiritualism, and early psychiatric care, and see Milan through a different lens. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it easy to continue exploring the city afterward.

The Experience in Review: What Real Travelers Say

Several visitors have praised the knowledgeable guides, describing them as “engaging,” “informative,” and “able to make complex topics accessible.” One reviewer said, “The stories of ‘madmen’ and great thinkers really made me see Milan in a new light,” highlighting how this tour combines entertainment and education effectively.

Some found the short duration just right—enough time to get a taste of Milan’s spiritual and medical past without feeling overwhelmed. Others appreciated the family-friendly nature, noting that children and teens enjoyed the stories of famous figures and mysteries.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re fascinated by the history of medicine, mental health, or spiritualist movements, you’ll find this tour enlightening. It’s also well-suited for those who want to explore Milan’s cultural depths beyond the art and fashion scenes, adding context and nuance to your trip. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personal and engaging experience.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a rare glimpse into a side of Milan few visitors see. It’s a well-balanced mix of history, human stories, and intrigue that will appeal to curious travelers eager to understand the city’s medical and spiritual past. The guides’ expertise ensures you’ll come away with stories that stick and a new appreciation for Milan’s layered history.

While it’s not a long tour, the depth of storytelling and landmark visits make it a valuable addition to any Milan itinerary—especially if you enjoy learning about human nature and society.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed to be family-friendly, with engaging stories that can captivate older children and teens, especially those interested in history or psychology.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in Italian, so if you don’t speak Italian, you might need a translation app or consider a different language offering.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 90 minutes, giving you a manageable yet immersive experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in front of the State University Entrance on Via Festa del Perdono and finishes back at the same spot.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for visitors with mobility needs.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your plans.

What’s included in the tour price?
You’ll experience visits to key landmarks and hear detailed stories about Milan’s history of asylums, mental health, and spiritualism.

Is it worth the price?
Given the expert guides and unique stories, many find it offers good value—especially for those interested in uncovering Milan’s hidden stories.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the listed price covers the guided tour. You’re free to explore more on your own afterward.

Embark on this journey if you’re curious about Milan’s hidden history, enjoy storytelling that illuminates complex topics, and want a thought-provoking, engaging experience that goes beyond the usual tourist fare.

You can check availability for your dates here: