Guide to Visiting Duomo di Milano Rooftop

Nestled in the heart of Milan, the Duomo di Milano is not just a cathedral; it’s a marvel of Gothic architecture that has captivated visitors for centuries. While the grandeur of its interior is undeniably impressive, there’s an equally enchanting experience waiting above the bustling city streets – the Duomo’s rooftop. 

From the rooftop, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Milan, marvel at the intricate details of the cathedral’s spires, and feel a unique connection to the city’s rich history. This article explores why the Duomo Rooftop is a must-visit when checking out the cathedral.

Is Duomo do Milano Rooftop Worth Visiting

The Duomo di Milano rooftop provides unbeatable panoramic views of the city and its famous landmarks, making it a unique experience. As you walk among the detailed sculptures and spires, you gain a new perspective on the cathedral’s architecture. You’ll encounter surprises like tributes to sports and hidden symbols, adding a layer of intrigue to your visit. Visiting the rooftop is a must when exploring the Milan Cathedral, promising moments you won’t forget.

History and Purpose of the Rooftop – Then vs Now

Commencing in 1358, the construction of the Duomo di Milano extended over 600 years before its completion. The rooftop took form in phases, with the principal spire finalized by 1765 and the crowning statue placed in 1774. Initially, the rooftop served as a revered path for pilgrims, granting them a unique perch for prayer amidst the spires. 

The cathedral’s protracted construction facilitated access for workers and material transportation. Over time, as the cathedral neared conclusion, the rooftop’s utilitarian role waned, likely repurposed for maintenance or storage. However, in contemporary times, the Duomo has reimagined its rooftop as an awe-inspiring tourist attraction. 

Now accessible to the public, visitors can relish breathtaking panoramas of Milan and admire the cathedral’s intricate architectural nuances from above.

Architecture and Structure of Duomo di Milano Rooftop

The Duomo di Milano’s rooftop, crafted by Francesco Croce and the Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano, is accessible via 256 stairs or two elevators. Visitors stepping onto the rooftop find themselves amidst a forest of pinnacles and spires. 

These intricately carved stone features distribute the roof’s weight and act as lightning rods, adding visual and structural importance. Detailed marble patterns pave the rooftop, offering a stunning surface for exploration. Statues of religious figures and mythical creatures showcase the artisans’ skill. 

Hidden around the perimeter, flying buttresses distribute the roof’s weight and play a critical role in maintaining stability. Modern amenities, including elevators and safety railings, ensure visitor safety and accessibility. The multiple terraces provide breathtaking views of the city and the cathedral, underscoring the rooftop’s architectural significance.

Duomo di Milano Rooftop Timings and Tickets

You can visit the Duomo di Milano rooftop from 9 am to 7 pm. Remember that the last entry to the rooftop is at 6.10 pm. Visitors can access the rooftop with an entry ticket, which allows them to choose either the stairs or elevator to reach the top. The Duomo di Milano entry ticket with rooftop access costs €26 for visitors and €14 for children between six and 17 years. If you are short on time and plan to visit only the terrace, you can get the exclusive Duomo di Milano rooftop entry ticket. 

This ticket costs €19 for adults and €10 for ages six to 17. Along with timings and tickets, you should also note the best time to visit the rooftop. The rooftop can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season and midday. For a quieter visit, aim for early morning or late afternoon. Always check the weather before you go, as severe conditions can close the rooftop.

Climbing Up to Duomo Rooftop

There are two levels of terrace in Duomo di Milano. You can reach the first level of the terrace by: 

• Elevator: This is the quicker and more comfortable option, and it offers a brief glimpse of the cathedral’s spires on the way up.
• Stairs: This option lets you experience the cathedral’s grandeur firsthand as you climb the 251 steps to the top. 

It’s a workout, but the reward is a sense of accomplishment and potentially some interesting details you might miss in an elevator. The walkways are on the first level, about 31 meters above the ground, and they go all around the monument, reaching up to the back of the cathedral. 

The second level is 45 meters above the ground level and can only be accessed by stairs. On this level, you’ll find the Central Terrace, the highest point visitors can reach. It’s pretty spacious, covering around 1,530 square meters, about the same size as the cathedral’s central nave. These high terraces offer one of the most beautiful views in the city. You can even see the mountains surrounding the Po Valley on clear days.

Things to See on the Rooftop

There are over 3,400 statues, 150 gargoyles, 96 giants, and 410 corbels for statues, along with the below things you must see when you visit this place. 

The View of Milan

You can see the entire city spread out below from the Duomo di Milano rooftop. Skyscrapers and historic buildings stand side by side. In the distance, the Alps provide a stunning backdrop. The view uniquely blends Milan’s modern vibrancy and rich history, making it an unforgettable experience.

Decorated Spires

There are 135 beautifully decorated spires on the terraces, most around 17 meters tall. The tallest one, the Main Spire, was built from 1765 to 1770 by architect Francesco Croce. At the top of this spire sits a statue of the Assumption of the Virgin in Heaven, known as the Madonnina, made from gold-embossed copper sheets. 

Madonnina

From the Duomo rooftop, visitors can catch sight of the iconic Madonnina statue perched atop the main spire. This golden figure, representing the Virgin Mary, has watched over Milan since 1774. Its gleaming presence adds to the majestic allure of the cathedral’s skyline. Observing the Madonnina from this vantage point offers a unique perspective on the city’s rich history and religious significance.

Statues of Boxing Champions

Adorning the Duomo rooftop are statues of boxing champions, an unexpected sight atop a cathedral. These sculptures pay homage to Primo Carnera, a renowned Italian boxer celebrated worldwide. Carved into the spires, they add a unique touch to the architecture, blending sportsmanship with religious symbolism. Their presence surprises and intrigues visitors, exploring the rooftop’s ornate details.

Pigeons Set in Stone

Among the elaborate sculptures and carvings on the Duomo rooftop are some unexpected visitors: stone-immortalized pigeons. These sculptures give the regal scene a hint of realism while capturing the sense of daily life near the cathedral. Exquisitely sculpted, they serve as everlasting mementos of the city’s busy roads and the classic allure of its metropolitan setting.

Duomo’s Iconic Flying Buttresses

The famous flying buttresses, which are arched structures that extend from the cathedral’s walls, are visible from the Duomo rooftop. These works of art in architecture are essential to keeping the stability of the entire structure and bearing the weight of the roof. They distribute the weight so that the walls don’t collapse inward over time, maintaining the cathedral’s structural integrity.

Marble Walkways

Marble walkways cover the Duomo rooftop, offering a breathtaking ambiance for exploring. These paths give guests a special viewpoint of the cathedral’s elaborate construction as they wind elegantly among the statues and towers. You will be amazed by the elaborate patterns and designs underfoot as you walk along the marble. The smooth surface invites leisurely walks and moments of contemplation amidst the cathedral’s grandeur.

FAQs About Duomo di Milano Rooftop 

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Featured Image: Duomomilano.it