Located in the heart of Milan is the Duomo (Italian: Duomo di Milano), a magnificent Gothic cathedral that took nearly 500 years to build. Gothic architecture flourished throughout Europe from the 12th to the 16th centuries, later influencing painting, interior design, and other artistic fields. This church is characterized by its numerous stained-glass windows, flying beams supporting the building, and 135 spires reaching towards the sky. Atop the tallest spire is a golden statue of the Virgin Mary, the goddess of love, a symbolic figure for the citizens. Her outstretched arms, as if protecting the city of Milan, are particularly striking. In addition, the approximately 3,500 sculptures of saints adorning the columns and walls are all realistically depicted, each with a unique posture and expression.
The magnificent, gleaming white facade had become blackened by exhaust fumes and other factors, but restoration work began in 2004, and it regained its original beauty in the autumn of 2008. Construction of the Duomo began in 1386. It was built at the request of Archbishop Antonio da Saluzzo and Gian Galeazzo Visconti, the Lord of Milan, to be dedicated to the Virgin Mary. However, construction was repeatedly interrupted by wars, but it was finally completed in 1813 by order of Napoleon, who invaded Italy. The central doors, which were replaced from wood to bronze in 1908 by Ludovico Polliani, depict the life of the Virgin Mary and scenes from the New Testament, with the scene of Christ's arrest in the lower left corner vividly conveying history. The relief above the central doors depicts the creation of Eve. Now, let's take a look inside. At the entrance, there is a security check of your belongings, and large bags and backpacks are prohibited and must be checked before you can enter. Revealing clothing is also not allowed, so while it's fine in winter, be careful with light clothing in summer. Incidentally, hats are not allowed for men, but hats are allowed for women. According to the guide, this is because women are considered more beautiful when wearing hats!
The interior consists of five naves, transepts, and an apse, and the main altar in the center dates back to the time of the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore. You will be overwhelmed by the 52 massive columns with sculptures on their capitals and the solemn atmosphere.
The stained glass windows adorning the side of the building are one of the cathedral's distinctive features. The figures are vividly depicted, and the soft light filtering through them makes them stand out and appear in vibrant colors.
As stained glass technology advanced, complex patterns could be depicted, making them look like picture books that offer a glimpse into the life of that era.
The pointed arch, which replaced the once-dominant semicircular arch, is called a spire arch. It is built in a position where one looks up, making the ceiling appear higher and the space seem larger.
Along the side of the cloister are the tombs of saints who contributed to the development of the church. A must-see is the tomb of Gian Giacomo de' Medici, a work by Leone Leoni, who is said to have been greatly influenced by Michelangelo.
Because the chamber is made of glass, the deceased's body is clearly visible, clad in luxurious clothing. It's unclear whether they feel peaceful being surrounded and watched over by so many, or whether they find the afterlife noisy.
The interior decorations aren't limited to sculptures; there are also some magnificent paintings on display.
Red lamps hang from above the main altar, illuminating the interior, and it is said that the nails used in Christ's crucifixion are enshrined inside. Visible inside is the tibri, a dome designed by Pellegrini and supported by four columns. This style is common in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, where Milan is located, and is also known as the Lombardy style or early Romanesque. Further back is the rose window of the apse, with a sun symbol floating in its center. The main altar also serves as the choir stalls, and a pipe organ is placed to the side. The crypt of the cathedral contains Roman ruins, a treasury, and the tabernacle containing the remains of Saint Charles Borromeo, the patron saint of Milan, which can be visited for a fee.
This glass window on the right leads to the bookstore inside the cathedral. It sells books, documents, and souvenirs that explain the Duomo.
The equestrian statue of Vittorio Emanuele II, which reigns supreme in Piazza Duomo, is positioned directly in front of the Duomo, as if watching over it. Now that our morning sightseeing is over, next time we'll introduce the Italian restaurant that will be included in the tour!
Milan Cathedral (Duomo)
Location: Piazza del Duomo, Milan, Italy TEL: +39 02 7202 2656
Church hours: 7:00 AM - 6:45 PM, Summer: Thursday through Sunday until 8:10 PM
Rooftop access: 9:00 AM - 6:10 PM (Elevator: €12, Stairs: €7)
