The Milan Cathedral, known locally as the Duomo di Milano, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and one of the largest churches in the world. Its construction began in 1386 under the direction of Archbishop Antonio da Saluzzo, and it took nearly six centuries to complete, with details being added until 1965 !
The facade of the Duomo di Milano is crafted from Candoglia marble, giving it a distinctive and luminous appearance. This marble is extracted from quarries in Val d’Ossola. Over the centuries, at least 78 different head architects have contributed to its design and construction. In addition to these architects, the cathedral's creation involved the dedicated efforts of thousands of artists, sculptors, and specialized construction workers, all of whom played a crucial role in bringing this architectural masterpiece to life.
Duomo di Milano - facade
The statue La Legge Nuova (The New Law) is located above the main door, on the left side of the balcony. Looking exactly like the Statue of Liberty, it was created by Camillo Pacetti in 1810 and is said to have been Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi's source of inspiration !
La Legge Nuova
The San Giovanni Bono chapel is located in the right transept and its altar was created by Italian sculptor Elia Vincenzo Buzzi in 1763. Using polychrome marble it depicts San Giovanni Bono trampling on heresy.
San Giovanni Bono chapel
Duomo di Milano ceiling
With 3400 statues, 135 gargoyles and 700 figures, there are more statues on the Milan Cathedral than on any other building in the world ! Additionally, the cathedral's rooftop terraces provide visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of Milan, offering a unique perspective of the city's skyline and a closer look at the intricate details of the cathedral's architecture. With a size of 8000 square meters, it is the largest walkable roof on any Gothic cathedral in the world.
Duomo di Milano - view from the roof
Duomo di Milano - the statues
Duomo di Milano - view from the roof
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