Every year, opera season kicks off at La Scala on December 7, the city’s patron saint’s day (Saint Ambrose). Can’t make it to a performance? A visit to La Scala’s museum is the next best thing. Explore the theater’s history as you visit each hall where you’ll find striking portraits and objects linked to the singers, musicians and conductors who have contributed to La Scala’s worldwide fame. Some stand out pieces include a portrait of Bellini’s muse, Giuditta Pasta, busts of tenor Tacchinardi and choreographer Viganò, Puccini’s watch, Rossini’s glasses, Mozart’s dark curls and a cast of Chopin’s hand. Marvel at the impressive collection of Verdi memorabilia, such as the first spinet that the composer owned, the handwritten score for the “Requiem” for Manzoni’s death, a letter to Boito announcing that he had completed Otello, and the composer’s grand piano. There are also exhibits regarding the diva Maria Callas and the legendary Pavarotti.