This quirky museum first opened to the public in 1881, two years after the death of art enthusiast and founder Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli. Each room contains a tasteful collection of antique and decorative arts inspired by a particular style from the past, from early gold timepieces, jewellery and porcelain to glasswork, books, carpets, tapestries and sculptures spanning the 14th to 19th centuries. An armoury downstairs boasts more than 100 coats of armour worn by European princes, and the admirable round-up of paintings includes Botticelli, Foppa, and Montegna. The rooms have been restored to evoke the eccentric nature of the collectors and are certain to suit the visitor's fancy.
