Prada has opened an eight-floor boutique in Milan, blending shopping with a museum-like experience. Located in the 19th-century Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the store offers a deep dive into the brand’s history and heritage, right next to the iconic Duomo di Milano cathedral. The vast space houses everything from leather bags and footwear to fragrances and beauty products, making it a full destination for Prada enthusiasts.
A Return to Prada’s Roots
The new Prada Galleria sits in the same building where Mario and Martino Prada opened their first leather goods shop in 1913. Originally named Fratelli Prada (Italian for Prada Brothers), the brand has come full circle with this expansion. In the 1970’s, Miuccia Prada, Mario’s granddaughter, took the reins of the luxury label, and today, as the head designer, she oversaw the creation of this monumental project, ensuring it honors the brand’s legacy while looking toward its future.
Miuccia Prada, Mario’s granddaughter and the brand’s current head designer, oversaw the project. The space now includes Prada Donna (womenswear) and Prada Uomo (menswear), connected by an underground passage called the Passaggio Segreto. This secret passage doubles as an exhibition showcasing key moments from Prada’s history, allowing visitors to explore the brand’s evolution in an immersive way.
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More Than Just Shopping
The Galleria is part store, part museum. Visitors can explore Pradasphere, a permanent exhibition featuring artifacts from Prada’s archives and collaborations in art, architecture, film, and culture. Many of these items are on display for the first time, offering a unique glimpse into the brand’s creative journey. An invitation-only exhibit, Appartamento, displays works by German photographer Andreas Gursky alongside 18th-century Italian furniture, blending contemporary art with historical interiors.
For a taste of Milan, the iconic pastry shop Marchesi 1824 sits above Prada Uomo, offering a delightful culinary experience. The Galleria also hosted this year’s Vogue World event, solidifying its status as a cultural hub that bridges commerce and art.
A Blend of Past and Present
The space offers everything from the latest runway pieces to home products and beauty items, catering to a wide range of tastes and needs. But it’s more than a shopping destination. Visitors leave with a deeper understanding of Prada’s legacy, from its early days in Milan to its role in designing lunar spacesuits and inspiring fashion-focused literature. The Galleria’s thoughtful curation ensures that every visitor gains insight into the brand’s impact on fashion, culture, and beyond.
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