To visit in Milan: the Duomo

The Milan Cathedral, simply called "The Duomo", the pulsating heart of the city, is an indelible place in the minds of those who have had the privilege of visiting Milan at least once. Its countless spires and statues, rising like a forest of marble, enchant every visitor emerging from the subway or gazing out from the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele.

It is no coincidence that its construction, initiated in 1386 and lasting for over six centuries, was conceived by the sovereign of Milan as an emblem of the power and magnificence of the city.

The Duomo is Italy's most imposing Gothic building, constructed with rose-white marble extracted from a quarry dedicated exclusively to this majestic work. It stretches for 157 meters, and atop its highest spire, which reaches 108.5 meters, the golden statue of the Madonnina looms, a symbol that captures the heart of all Milanese and beyond. So much so that numerous reproductions of the Madonnina of Milan can be found around the world, one of which even on Everest!

The Cathedral also represents the largest accessible Gothic structure in the world for a rooftop walk. One of the must-do experiences during the visit is to ascend to the terraces, from where one can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding mountains. It is considered one of the top 10 viewpoints to admire Milan from above.

During the visit to the Duomo, we recommend exploring calmly under the majestic vaults and looking both down and up.

This extraordinary cathedral, the Duomo, is distinguished by its statues placed on the capitals, the upper parts of the columns, making it unique in the world.

The statues around the altar even date back to the period before Christopher Columbus's discovery of America! It is also worth noting the important ancient relics resting beneath the square, silent witnesses of over a millennium of history and having seen prominent figures such as St. Augustine and St. Ambrose pass by.

Location:

Duomo Square, 20123 Milan MI