Centuries of construction and architectural excellence
Construction of the cathedral began in 1386 under the direction of Archbishop Antonio da Saluzzo at the request of the Duke of Milan, Gian Galeazzo Visconti. The intention was clear - to build a cathedral that would not only be a house of God, but also a magnificent symbol of the power and wealth of Milan. Architects, sculptors and craftsmen from all over Europe were involved in the construction, which explains the complex mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles.
The cathedral is famous for its breathtaking white marble façade, which is decorated with thousands of statues and turrets. The dominant feature of the whole building is the golden statue of the Madonna, which stands at the highest point of the cathedral. This statue, known as the Madonna, has become a spiritual symbol of Milan and locals often say that Milan is always under her protection.
An unforgettable interior
Upon entering the cathedral, you are immediately struck by its vast and imposing interior. With 52 massive columns supporting the vaulted ceiling, the cathedral's space is incredibly grand. The interior is full of artistic gems, including stained glass windows that are among the largestin the world and tell the stories of biblical scenes in vibrant colours.
One of the most significant features inside the cathedral is the tomb of Archbishop Charles of Bohemia, who played a key role in the anti-Reformation movement in the 16th century. His tomb, inlaid with gold and silver, is located in the crypt below the high altar and is considered an important place of pilgrimage.
The view from the roof
One of the greatest experiences when visiting the cathedral is walking on its rooftops. Visitors can take the spiral staircase or the elevator to the top, where they can get a panoramic view of the entire city of Milan. On a clear day, you can even see the snow-capped peaks of the Alps. Walking between the turrets and ornate buttresses is a unique experience, offering a close-up view of the detailed work of the sculptors.
A symbol of spirituality and unity
The Duomo is not only an architectural marvel, but also the spiritual and cultural centre of Milan. It took almost six centuries to build and was only completed in 1965. This long construction process symbolises the patience, faith and determination of the city's inhabitants, who believed that the Cathedral would be a testimony to their devotion to God and to their city.
Today, the Duomo is the place where important religious and state ceremonies are held. In 1805, Napoleon Bonaparte was crowned King of Italy here, linking the cathedral not only to the religious but also to the political history of Europe.
The Duomo Cathedral is an icon of Milan and one of the most important architectural wonders of the world. Its splendour lies not only in its physical size and decoration, but also in its profound symbolism, which reflects the spirit of the city. So when you go to Milan, you must not miss this place!
