The logo represents a neuronal cell set in a square frame symbolizing a slide for microscopy.  The frame is divided into two parts longitudinally. On the left side the neuron branches are white on a yellow background, while on the right side they are yellow on a white background.  Next to the neuron, on two superposed lines, the following words are printed: Istituto Nazionale Neurologico "Carlo Besta" and "Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico di Diritto Pubblico ", i.e. National Neurological Institute Carlo Besta" and " Public Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Health Care"
The symbol is meant to highlight the mission of the National Neurological Institute: treatment of neurological diseases and research on neurosciences.