Milan Cathedral

The Milan Cathedral, one of the most iconic Gothic cathedrals in the world, represents an extraordinary monument both for its history and its architecture. Located in the heart of the city, the Duomo is a masterpiece that took almost six centuries to complete, a symbol of Milanese faith, power, and art. The construction of the Duomo began in 1386, on the initiative of Bishop Antonio da Saluzzo and with the support of Gian Galeazzo Visconti, Lord of Milan. The cathedral was meant to replace the old basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and other existing religious structures. The project was entrusted to the Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo, an organization created specifically to oversee the construction and maintenance of the complex. The choice to use Candoglia marble, transported through the Naviglio to the construction site, and to adopt a Gothic style represented a revolution for the time. These decisions required the involvement of architects, engineers, and artisans from all over Europe, making the Duomo a crossroads of international skills and styles. Construction began with the apse and stained glass windows, progressing towards the transept and the aisles, but the closure of the vaults remained an open challenge for centuries. During the 15th century, architects such as Leonardo da Vinci and Donato Bramante contributed to the project, especially in the design of the lantern, the octagon that supports the central dome. Leonardo’s influence is visible in the technical and artistic details that enrich the structure. The Counter-Reformation period, under the archbishoprics of Carlo Borromeo and later Federico Borromeo, marked a new phase of interventions. The presbytery, side chapels, and crypt were redesigned according to the principles of the Council of Trent, introducing architectural and decorative elements that emphasized the solemnity and spirituality of the place. Pellegrino Pellegrini, one of the architects of the time, worked to give the Duomo a more classical appearance, while maintaining its Gothic essence. The 18th century saw the addition of the famous Madonnina, the golden statue of the Virgin Mary placed on the highest spire, a symbol of protection for the city of Milan. During the Napoleonic period, the completion of the facade became a priority, with Napoleon himself ordering the acceleration of the work and being crowned King of Italy inside the Duomo in 1805. Construction continued in the 19th century with the completion of the last spires and stained glass windows, leading to the final phase in the 20th century. The Duomo was officially completed in 1965, with the inauguration of the last portal. Numerous restorations, especially after the damage suffered during World War II, have ensured the preservation of this monument. Recent fundraising campaigns, such as the one for the adoption of the spires, have involved the public in the preservation of the cultural heritage of the Duomo.