Milan Cathedral, or Duomo di Milano, is one of the most magnificent architectural wonders in Europe. Standing in the heart of Milan, this Gothic masterpiece is not only the largest church in Italy but also one of the most breathtaking religious buildings in the world. With its intricate façade, stunning stained-glass windows, and impressive rooftop terraces, the cathedral is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Milan.
A Brief History of Milan Cathedral
The construction of Milan Cathedral began in 1386 under the direction of Archbishop Antonio da Saluzzo and was commissioned by Gian Galeazzo Visconti, the Duke of Milan. The project was ambitious, aiming to replace the old church of Santa Maria Maggiore with a grander and more imposing structure. Over the centuries, numerous architects, sculptors, and artisans contributed to its construction, which spanned over 600 years.
The cathedral’s construction continued through different architectural periods, incorporating various influences from French Gothic to Renaissance and Baroque styles. It was not officially completed until 1965 when the final finishing touches were added, making it one of the longest-running architectural projects in history.
Architectural Splendor
The Façade and Exterior
Milan Cathedral’s façade is one of the most intricate and awe-inspiring in the world. The exterior is adorned with over 3,400 statues, 135 spires, and countless carvings depicting biblical scenes, saints, and mythical creatures. The white Candoglia marble, quarried near Lake Maggiore, gives the cathedral its striking appearance.
One of the most famous elements of the cathedral’s exterior is the golden statue of the Madonnina (Little Madonna), perched at the highest point of the cathedral's main spire. Installed in 1774, the Madonnina has since become a symbol of Milan.
The Interior
Stepping inside Milan Cathedral is like entering a vast and ethereal world of faith and artistry. The enormous nave, flanked by towering columns, leads visitors toward the altar, while the stunning stained-glass windows, some dating back to the 15th century, bathe the space in colorful light.
The cathedral also houses numerous sculptures and artworks, including the famous Saint Bartholomew Flayed, a statue depicting the saint carrying his own skin over his shoulder. The relics of Saint Charles Borromeo, one of Milan’s most revered archbishops, are also enshrined here.
The Rooftop Terraces
One of the most spectacular features of Milan Cathedral is its rooftop, which offers visitors a chance to walk among its spires and admire panoramic views of the city. The rooftop is accessible via stairs or an elevator and provides an up-close look at the detailed craftsmanship of the cathedral’s pinnacles, flying buttresses, and statues. On clear days, visitors can even see the Alps in the distance.
Visiting Milan Cathedral
Milan Cathedral is open to visitors year-round, and different ticket options are available depending on the areas you wish to explore. General admission allows access to the main cathedral, while additional tickets are required to visit the archaeological site beneath the cathedral and the rooftop terraces.
The cathedral is located in Piazza del Duomo, the city’s central square, making it easily accessible by public transport. The nearest metro station, Duomo, is directly adjacent to the cathedral.
Fun Facts About Milan Cathedral
- Milan Cathedral is the third-largest church in the world, after St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City and Seville Cathedral in Spain.
- The Madonnina statue on top of the cathedral stands at 4.16 meters (13.6 feet) and is covered in gold leaf.
- The cathedral’s massive organ is the largest in Italy and one of the biggest in Europe.
- During Napoleon Bonaparte’s reign, he was crowned King of Italy inside Milan Cathedral in 1805.
Conclusion
Milan Cathedral is a true architectural gem, blending centuries of artistic and religious devotion into one of the world’s most extraordinary churches. Whether you admire its exterior, explore its stunning interior, or take in the breathtaking views from the rooftop, a visit to Milan Cathedral is an unforgettable experience for anyone traveling to Milan.
