The largest church inItaly towers above the city centre, where a gold-coated statue of the Madonnawatches over Milan.
The Cathedral of Milan is a breathtaking example of late Gothicarchitecture and is one of the largest churches in the world. It took almostsix centuries to build. Today it covers almost 40,000 square feet (12,000square metres) of the city centre. It is the most recognisable building inMilan.
The church remains active and is the seat of the archbishop of Milan.Regular services are held inside the Duomo, as it is known to locals. There area number of additional opportunities to see its features as well. Admire thechurch’s many spires from outside in the Piazza del Duomo or climb to itsrooftop for views across the city.
The Cathedral of Milan occupies the historical centre of Milan and thestreets of the city radiate outward from the piazza where it stands. Approachthe cathedral by foot to see its 135 spires looming over the city. The churchis also adorned with many gargoyles and statues. See the famous metal statue ofthe Madonna high overhead. The Madonnina sits 354 feet (108 metres) abovestreet level and is coated in gold leaf, making it radiant in the sun.
Despite its enormity, the interior of the Cathedral of Milan has anunusual intimacy. Beautiful stained-glass windows depict scenes from the Bibleand reflect an eerie light across the church floor. Descend the marblestaircase from the main cathedral to discover the Treasury of the Cathedralwhere you’ll find early Christian and Romanesque artefacts.
Ascend to the cathedral roof to gaze across the cityrooftops. On a cloudless day the Alps are visible on the horizon. Climb thestaircase that leads all the way to the top or take the elevator.
The Cathedral of Milan is open daily. An admission feeapplies for the Treasure of the Cathedral and the rooftop. The cathedral isserved by a metro station at the front but can be reached on foot from manydowntown hotels.
