Mark Twain called the Duomo di Milano “an anthem sung in stone.”
Constructed by 78 different architects over 600 years, the cathedral displays the influence of Romanesque, Renaissance, and Gothic architectural styles. This is especially true when considering its imposing, solid brick architecture, with tall columns, arches, elaborate altars, and statues. There is no shortage of fascinating things inside Duomo Milan, whether the museum, the archaeological area, or the fantastic interiors.
If you are wondering what to see inside Duomo di Milano, read ahead and learn all the sights you should know in the cathedral.
Gothic Architecture
The main church of Milan, the Duomo, is the largest in Italy and was created at the height of a Gothic-style building. The Milan Duomo, with its magnificent collection of statues decorating the cathedral, the roof, and the Baptistery, is a must-see on every Milan trip. There, you can see pinnacles, flying buttresses, stained glass windows, and octagonal Renaissance cupolas. In addition, the building also features 17th-century doors, an 18th-century spire and a Neo-Classical Facade. The cathedral is remarkable for its contrasting Gothic Flamboyant, Gothic Revival, and Romanticism styles and for showcasing the creations of numerous generations of art.
Main Nave
When you enter the cathedral, the majestic Duomo’s central nave welcomes you. The room is enormous, stretching out in front of you with tall, thin columns and high ceilings. Admire the kaleidoscope-like effect of sunshine spilling through the stained glass windows onto the marble floor. As you gaze around at the architectural wonders surrounding you, let the peacefulness of the place wash over you.
High Altar
The high altar is a site of great significance and devotion at the center of the Duomo. It is the focal point of the Duomo di Milano and one of its must-see locations. The altar, decorated with priceless metals and finely carved sculptures, is the center of attention for religious rituals and ceremonies. Take a moment to contemplate as you see the pious offer of prayers and find comfort in the presence of this hallowed place. The air is heavy with reverence, which attests to the Duomo’s spiritual importance.
Chapels
The Music Chapel, one of Milan’s oldest cultural establishments, is home to a choir that dates back to 1402. It is made up of a kid choir, a music master, a deputy master, and an organist who are seated in the circular presbytery. The Music Chapel has hosted masters such as Vincenzo Ruffo and Giulio Cesare. J.S. Bach’s son, Johann Christian, played the organ at one time. It goes without saying that this rather skilled chorus can be heard every Sunday at 11 p.m. supporting the Eucharistic celebration.
Stained Glass Windows
Duomo’s incredible assortment of stained glass windows is one of its most distinctive interior characteristics. These windows’ artwork depicts historical events, biblical images, and religious symbolism. Every window is an homage to the beauty of religion and the skill of great craftspeople.
Sundial
As you enter through the facade doors in the southern aisle, a white strip runs the entire width of the cathedral, with a brass line in the middle. The sundial, built in 1786, strikes a metal line marking solar noon with a fine light beam that enters through a gnomon hole etched into the ceiling. On either side of the brass line, little white slabs with Zodiac signs printed on them indicate the seasons.
The Organ
References to the organ at Duomo di Milano date back to the fourteenth century. The first organ, built over the course of two years by monk Martino de Stremidi, was so big that it required two men to drive a gigantic wheel. At some point in the church’s architectural remodeling, the altar was installed on either side of the presbytery’s high altar. It is elaborate, with intricate carvings and organ pipe encasings. The organ underwent numerous renovations before becoming an electronically powered device.
Statues and Sculptures:
Milan Cathedral is the building with the most number of statues and gargoyles. Duomo di Milano is home to over 3,400 statues, 135 gargoyles, and 700 figures. They are distributed around the external and internal perimeters, spires, and balconies. Here is a brief on the two most famous statues at Duomo di Milano.
Saint Bartholomew
The figure of Saint Bartholomew Flayed, which was allegedly completed in 1562, is located to the left of the altar. It is renowned for its gloomy design and is one of the cathedral’s most noticeable statues. It has an almost life-size statue of St. Bartholomew with his skin ruthlessly peeled to reveal his bare muscle and flesh. His skin, not a garment, is the one wrapped around his shoulder. Tradition holds that St. Bartholomew was crucified alive while following Jesus.
Madonnia
A famous and iconic aspect of the Duomo, the Madonnina is said to guard and keep an eye on Milan! Madonnina is the statue of Lady Mary atop Milan Cathedral, standing at a height of 4.16 meters (14 feet). It is a beacon that watches over the city and acts as a defender and guardian for all who live there. The figure represents purity and grace and holds a lily embellished with a crown.
Cryps and Archeological Area
The Duomo Milan’s archaeological area is located beneath the cathedral. Duomo di Milano was built on an older church – Santa Tecla Basilica, the Christian Baptistery of St. John, and an old cemetery. This old church dates back to the early 4th century. The baptistry was allegedly built in 387 and destroyed in 1394. Astonishingly, the remnants of the marble and the crumbled strata of the building were not discovered until the 1961 excavation. Today, visitors can descend below the cathedral and view the remains of the old basilica.
Duomo Museum
The Duomo Museum preserves and presents an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and historical objects, serving as a portal to Milan’s cultural history.
The museum was founded in 1891 and is home to several well-known pieces of art, including the:
- The Trivulzio Candelabrum by Nanni di Bartolo
- The Saint Bartholomew Flayed by Marco d’Agrate
- The Saint John the Baptist by Donatello
- The Madonna of the Glass Case by Giovanni di Balduccio
- The Silver Altar of Saint Ambrose
In addition to its permanent collection, the Duomo Museum features multimedia projects and interactive exhibits.
Contents
FAQ
1. What is inside Duomo di Milan?
The Duomo di Milano contains the central nave, high altar, magnificent stained glass windows, sculptures, crypt, archaeological area, and artistic treasures. The cathedral also provides access to the rooftop terraces, which offer expansive views of Milan. It also houses religious items and exquisite artworks.
2. Is visiting the Duomo Milan worthwhile?
Visiting the Duomo di Milano is well worth the money and effort!
3. Is admission to the Milano Duomo free of charge?
Yes, believers are entitled to free admission to the Duomo di Milano. However, access to any rooms within Milan’s Duomo requires additional payment.
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Featured Image: Duomomilano.it