Duomo di Milano Stained Glass Windows

The Duomo di Milano features 55 monumental stained-glass windows, renowned for their impressive size and the multitude of figures they depict. These windows illustrate stories from the Old and New Testaments and the Apocalypse, making them an iconic and must-see attraction for visitors to Milan. Visitors also recommend visiting and admiring the stained glass windows in the Milan Cathedral.

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How Old Are These Windows

The stained glass windows at Duomo di Milano were created over a long period, beginning in the late 14th century and continuing well into the 20th century. Work on the first stained glass windows began in the late 14th century, around the 1390s, which coincides with the early stages of the Duomo’s construction. Creating the Duomo’s stained glass windows wasn’t a quick endeavor.

Work continued for centuries, with new windows being added and existing ones potentially being restored or updated throughout the years. The project continued even in the 20th century. New windows were added, and existing ones underwent restoration to preserve their beauty for future generations.

Where Will You Find The Stained Glass Windows In Milan Duomo

The stained glass windows of the Duomo di Milano are spread throughout the cathedral, adorning various sections. As sunlight streams through the windows, it creates colorful patterns on the floor. Following these light displays can lead you to the windows themselves.

However, there are innumerable places inside the cathedral where you will find these windows; here are a few areas where you will find them for sure:

Main Nave and Apse: Many of the larger and more impressive windows are located in the Duomo’s main nave (central corridor) and apse (rounded eastern end). These windows often depict grand scenes from the Bible.
Transepts: The transepts (arms extending from the central nave) also feature stained glass windows, though they may be smaller than those in the nave and apse. They might showcase depictions of saints or specific stories.
Baptistery: The Baptistery, a separate area within the Duomo dedicated to baptisms, is known for its large stained glass windows, some portraying scenes from the Old and New Testaments. It might seem obvious, but don’t forget to gaze upwards! The stained glass windows are high on the walls and ceilings.

If you’re unsure where to find specific windows, consider asking a tour guide or the staff for assistance.

Design and Styles of the Stained Glass Windows

The stained glass windows were designed to complement the Gothic architecture of the Duomo. The scale, color palette, and thematic elements were carefully chosen to create a unified and awe-inspiring experience for visitors. Beyond the main figures, the windows often include intricate details that add to the narrative.

These details could include depictions of landscapes, flora and fauna, or even architectural elements that provide context to the stories being told. They serve not only as beautiful works of art but also as a window into the religious beliefs and artistic styles that prevailed over centuries.

Religious Themes:

A significant portion of the windows depict scenes from the Old and New Testaments. These visual stories served as a “Bible for the Poor,” allowing even illiterate viewers to understand biblical narratives. Popular themes include the life of Christ, stories of Moses and the Exodus, and scenes from the Book of Revelation.
Many windows showcase revered saints and martyrs, often identified by their symbols or attributes. These figures served as inspirational role models and protectors for the faithful.

Artistic Styles:

Styles of these stained windows evolved continuously and reflected ideologies of different periods.

The earliest windows (late 14th century) exhibit characteristics of the Gothic style – rich color palettes, intricate figural representations, and a focus on light and shadow for dramatic effect.
As the project progressed into the 15th and 16th centuries, Renaissance elements emerged.
These windows often featured more realistic portrayals of figures, balanced compositions, and classical architectural motifs incorporated into the designs.
Windows from the 17th to 20th centuries showcase a more comprehensive range of styles.
Some might retain religious themes with more Baroque flourishes, while others might reflect Mannerist or even modern artistic influences.

Glasswork Technique on Duomo di Milano Stained Glass Windows

Creating these windows wasn’t simple. They are the result of several key techniques employed by skilled glassworkers.

Glassblowing and Staining: Molten glass is blown into sheets and then stained with metallic salts or compounds to achieve a vast array of vibrant colors.
Enameling: Opaque and translucent enamels are painted onto the glass surface, allowing for finer details and highlights.
Leading: Combining individual glass pieces using lead cams creates a robust, weatherproof framework.

The artists also masterfully manipulated light and shadow to create depth, drama, and a sense of awe within the cathedral. The colors come alive as sunlight streams through the windows, illuminating the vast interior space.

Did You Know?

The use of saffron in Duomo’s stained-glass windows influenced Milanese cuisine by inspiring the creation of Risotto alla Milanese, a now staple of Milanese cuisine. The story goes that a young apprentice, Valerius, working on the stained-glass windows of the Duomo in the 16th century, added saffron to a pot of risotto at his master’s wedding, giving birth to the golden-hued Risotto alla Milanese.

Some Notable Windows

The Duomo di Milano has 55 stained glass windows, each with its own unique story and artistic merit. However, a few stand out for their historical significance, artistic mastery, or captivating themes.

Here are some notable windows to keep an eye out for during your visit:

Vision of the Apocalypse (Central Window of the Main Apse): Commissioned in the 15th century, this window is a masterpiece of storytelling. It depicts scenes from the Book of Revelation, showcasing the dramatic imagery associated with the apocalypse. Notably, it incorporates fragments of the original 14th-century glass, adding to its historical significance.
Life of St. Catherine of Alexandria (Lower Windows in the Nave): This series of windows, crafted by the Arcimboldi family in the 16th century, depicts scenes from Saint Catherine’s life and martyrdom. The detailed narratives and intricate details showcase the glassworkers’ artistic skill.
New Testament Windows: These windows, designed by Lombard masters in the 16th century, showcase the grisaille technique, which uses varying shades of grey to create a sense of depth and form. These windows depict stories from the life of Christ, offering a more somber yet elegant portrayal.

Artists Behind the Windows

The Duomo di Milano’s extensive collection of stained glass windows spans decades and features works by various artists. Here are a few of them:

Biagio and Giuseppe Arcimboldo: Father and son, they designed a window in the right transept with scenes from the Life of Saint Catherine of Alexandria.
Giovanni Battista Bertini and his sons: They worked on the apse windows, using a new technique of enamel decoration based on earlier models of historiated stained glass.
They made eleven large stained glass windows, including the two apse windows.
Pellegrino Tibaldi: He rebuilt the sanctuary and was responsible for the Gothic style of the cathedral during the Counter-Reformation.
Carlo Buzzi: He became the new chief architect in 1638 and decided to continue the facade in the Gothic style, which had previously been ditched.
Giuseppe Perego: He designed the gilded statue of the Virgin Mary, known as La Madonnina, which was placed on top of the cathedral’s highest spire in 1774.
Giuseppe Bini: He did the copper plating for the La Madonnina statue.

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Restorations and Preservations of the Glass Windows

Due to their age and exposure to light, weather, and pollution, the windows have undergone restoration throughout history. This ensures their beauty and longevity for future generations. A conservation program was undertaken from 1996 to 2003 to restore the stained glass windows of the Duomo di Milano.

This program involved removing the windows in sections, taking them to a conservation center, and then reinstalling them. One recent notable restoration project involved the “Vision of the Apocalypse” window in the 20th century. This involved careful cleaning, repairing damaged sections, and incorporating fragments of the original 14th-century glass.