The Brera Art Gallery in Milan is an important museum that houses a prominent art collection. It is located in the Brera Palace, which was built in the 17th century and initially served as a Gothic convent. The palace was transformed in the following centuries and besides the art gallery, it also houses the Academy of Fine Arts and the Braidense Library. The presence of a statue of Napoleon in the entrance courtyard is due to his establishment of the idea of an art collection in Milan with works from the areas of Italy conquered during military campaigns. The museum was inaugurated in 1809 on the anniversary of his birthday. The Brera Art Gallery is recognized for its valuable collection of paintings, including works by great masters such as Raphael, Caravaggio, and Rembrandt.