Milan Cathedral (Duomo) Reviews (Milan, Italy)

The day my knees crumbled

Warsaw, Poland

June 10, 2013

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Having had a good walk around the outside of the Duomo in Milan, I suddenly had a mad urge to walk up the steps to the roof of the cathedral. I am not very good with heights but really wanted to take this opportunity to see if I could see the Alps ...Read more Having had a good walk around the outside of the Duomo in Milan, I suddenly had a mad urge to walk up the steps to the roof of the cathedral. I am not very good with heights but really wanted to take this opportunity to see if I could see the Alps like so many guide books say you can. My husband didn’t accompany me as he has a heart problem and the long walk up and the height would not be good for his condition so he stayed on the ground, found a shady spot to sit and stayed there until I messaged him that I was down.

Firstly, I had to purchase a ticket from the kiosk opposite the eastern part of the cathedral. It costs 7 Euros if you take the stairs and 12 Euros if you go by lift. It’s a bit of a strange carry-on, you take your ticket to the office where there is a sign saying stairs, give it to the guard who puts it through a machine and then you have to walk anti-clockwise around the cathedral until you come to a second entrance where the lift and stairs are. This entrance is guarded by soldiers and there was a long queue. I waited about 35 minutes in the queue, got bombed on the head by pigeon poop and managed not to get involved with the scammers tying bracelets around wrists and asking for payment.

Once through the barrier I was on my way up the staircase. The steps are well made and there is enough room for people to pass who are descending the climb. I started the ascent very enthusiastically and rushed up the steps too quickly. Very near to the top, I had to stop as my chest tightened and I was really out of breath. The Australian couple following behind me in the queue stopped and asked if I was okay. I replied that I was fine, just out of puff.

When I actually walked out on to the roof, my legs felt like jelly and I was a bit concerned in case, I slipped and fell. The roof slants from the top to a metal fence that circulates the whole of the rooftop; this is to stop people from falling over as it is a hell of a way down. I felt a bit sick looking down at the squared pavement of the Piazza del Duomo and had to take a deep breath to compose myself. I noticed that people were silent as they looked at the whole of Milan, a marvellous spectacle. On one side you have the Piazza, Galleria, Via Mercanti and the Loggia and on the other side you have the Arengario and the Palazzio Reale.

As you walk amongst the towers, figures and spires you can look out and see the snow covered Alps crouching below the azure sky with rolling white clouds. I was very excited to see the mountains, they were breath-taking. All ages were walking on the top of the roof; I saw small children and elderly ladies and gentleman. There is a sign saying that Bambinos have to be accompanied by an adult. There are many stone nooks and crannies where children could easily get stuck in so if you do take children up there, my advice is to hold them tightly and don’t let them out of your sight.

From start to finish the trip up to the roof and the walk about took about 45 minutes. I came down in the lift, I am not sure if I was supposed to but my ticket wasn’t checked and I thought my crumbling knees would not make the descent. Seven days later, my knees are still aching but I am glad I climbed to the top of the Duomo, it was amazing!
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From journal Meraviglioso Milano

Thought I'd Died and Gone to Heaven

by Praskipark

Warsaw, Poland

June 9, 2013

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Best of IgoUgo Milan as a city has a lot to offer, some of the most fascinating buildings in Italy. The Duomo is one of these, Italy’s multi towered tribute to Gothic architecture. It’s a small city, quite compact and easy to get around. From our hotel situated ...Read more Milan as a city has a lot to offer, some of the most fascinating buildings in Italy. The Duomo is one of these, Italy’s multi towered tribute to Gothic architecture. It’s a small city, quite compact and easy to get around. From our hotel situated close to the Loretto Metro stop it took about 10 minutes, 5 stops in all. Our navigation skills aren't always the best and we are never sure which exit to take but on this sunny morning we chose the right one and as I walked up the Metro steps with the blazing sunlight dashing into my eyes I spied a wondrous vision, the Duomo. I am sure Bryan Adams won't mind me using his lyrics if I say that, 'I thought I'd died and gone to heaven', a cliché I know but that is how I felt.

The Piazza del Duomo was bustling but people were behaving in an orderly fashion, queues were beginning to form to enter the inside of the cathedral but it was far too soon for me to do that, I wanted to take my time to explore this beautiful piece of architecture. I stood back near the monument dedicated to Vittorio Emanuel II to admire the cathedral in all is glory. The Duomo is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world although looking at its newly cleaned façade it doesn’t give the appearance of being gigantic. It is made of brick faced with marble and to me, looks like a very expensive and elaborate toy model floating underneath fluffy clouds of blue and white. I really was overcome with emotion and astounded by the physical beauty of this cathedral.

Apparently, two basilicas were built on this spot as far back as the 5th century but it wasn’t until 1075 that they were reconstructed into one building, the Duomo. Antonio da Saluzza, who was the Archbishop in 1386, had ideas to create a Gothic building that would really shine out so that you felt its presence from a distance. Work started in this year but went on for years and years. It’s only when you look at the details of the building you pick up on the Baroque and neo-classical influences.

I walked around the whole building looking up at the roof and into the sky for most of the time; my neck was aching by the end of the visit. I have never seen a cathedral furnished with so many pinnacles that are divided by a grove of steeples, topped with figurines that look out over the city. You really do have to look up to admire all the gargoyles, towers and the statue of the Madonna which sits on top of the main spire which stands at 109 metres.

The windows of the cathedral are spectacular and indeed very large, the ones situated in the choir area are the largest, I will describe this in my story about the Duomo interior which is coming up shortly and just by looking at the façade you are able to work out that the cathedral has five naves. Looking closely at the statues carved on some of the outside doors made me want to jump and down with excitement, such exquisite detail. How clever these sculptors were and what patience they must have had to painstakingly carve the smallest of features out of marble. I was astonished at these figurines and will remain to be astonished for the rest of my days.

The steps leading up to the front of the cathedral from the Piazza, the white squares painted on the piazza floor, Italian flags and a military band marching and playing in tune all made the experience of seeing the exterior of the Duomo, very special. The Duomo has to be Milan’s number one attraction, it is definitely mine. I fell in love with it at first sight; a really very beautiful building.

Address: Piazza del Duomo
Metro: 1,3 to Duomo; tram 1,2,3,12,24
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From journal Meraviglioso Milano

A Matter of Scale

by TianjinPaul

Rotherham, United Kingdom

April 7, 2013

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Best of IgoUgo In my opinion, appreciating the Duomo Cathedral is all about perspective and distance. It can be appreciated in two ways. The first is from afar when the visitor is struck by the pure scale of the creation and the way it dominates the Piazza del ...Read more In my opinion, appreciating the Duomo Cathedral is all about perspective and distance. It can be appreciated in two ways. The first is from afar when the visitor is struck by the pure scale of the creation and the way it dominates the Piazza del Duomo. The second is from close up when it possible to see the intricate detail of the decoration on both the exterior and the interior. It is a truly fantastic sight to see.
My girlfriend and I began our experience with Duomo from close-up. This was by chance rather than design. The main reason for this was that we had parked in an area behind the cathedral and found ourselves approaching it form the rear, which is far less dramatic than the front. However, as we walked along the side of the cathedral we were astounded at the amount of statues that were carved into the walls and by the quality and details of those statues. It was truly astounding to look into the eyes of the bearded saints who loomed out of the walls and see real faces and emotions.
As we reached the front, the detail went out of the window as we simply stood and stared across Piazza del Duomo at the cathedral. It's pure size and scale are magnificent. With the late afternoon sun pouring down onto the white façade it looked wonderful and had a certain heavenly feel. Even from such a difference it was easy to see that the imposing front of the building was also beautiful carved with immense detail. This was particularly true of the roof on which there is an array of tiny towers that crown the building delightfully.
To go inside, there is a plethora of confusing admission option. Thankfully, you are allowed to go in just to see the main body of the cathedral. However, if you so wish there are options that allow you to see the alter, the roof, a viewing gallery the crypt and other selected areas. We opted just to see the main part of the cathedral and certainly were not disappointed.
The first thing to hit you when you enter is the magnificent view from the door down to the altar. There is a wonderful combination of symmetry and perspective as the pillars rise up to the ceiling, pews line the centre of the cathedral and the floor is tiled in geometric patterns. Sadly, the cathedral charges 2Euros if you wish to take a picture of this great sight. The policy is actually enforced strictly as volunteers in red robes approach anyone taking a picture to politely ask for the fee. The architecture on the inside of the cathedral is wonderful, but the highlight for me was the ceramics on the floor that were so tiny and provided a wonderful contrast to the towering pillars.
The Duomo cathedral is by far Milan's biggest attraction and is well worth the visit. My girlfriend and I were very impressed. It is in the centre of Milan and has its own metro station. Admission is free, but you can pay more to see different parts of the cathedral.
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From journal Miiiiiiilannnnooooooo

Milan Cathedral (Duomo)

by stef7sa

Montecalvo versiggia, Italy

November 9, 2011

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Definitely the most famous sight of Milan, the Duomo Santa Maria Nascente is also one of the largest religious buildings in the world. Its splendidly white marble facade with thousands of spires and statues opens up to the large Piazza del Duomo, ...Read more

A Visit to the Rooftop in Milan

by airynfaerie

St. Augustine, Florida

October 31, 2011

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Best of IgoUgo Although I'd been to Milan a couple times before my last trip, I'd never really explored the Cathedral - nor gone to its magnificent rooftop. So this past time, I made it my first stop.For only €6 one can walk to the top of this amazing gothic ...Read more Although I'd been to Milan a couple times before my last trip, I'd never really explored the Cathedral - nor gone to its magnificent rooftop. So this past time, I made it my first stop.

For only €6 one can walk to the top of this amazing gothic building (or for €10 you can ride the elevator up if you're legs are too tired from walking around the city). Either way you get there - you'll be glad you did. It's quite breath-taking the view you'll get over the city. But even more impressive than the view is the actual architecture and design up close and personal.

Enter through the left side of the Duomo (if you're looking at the front doors). Definitely take a stop inside the church as well before or after the rooftop visit. The self-guided walking tour of the roof begins on the back side where you emerge on a lower level of the roof overlooking the Galleria and nearby department store, La Renaciente. It may take you a few minutes to even get your feet moving as most people are frozen in awe of the crazy details of the spires.

Follow the walking path along the fully-stoned building, linger at the view, and take plenty of photos. By the time you reach the front of the cathedral there's a small stairway up to the tip-top level. Here is where the sides of the roof slope meet and you can have room to spread out, take a seat, and linger as long as you'd like.

Normally, there is some sort of reconstruction, repair, or renovation going on which is quite interesting to see. Plus be sure to read some of the informational plaques.

We visited right before sunset and were able to take some amazing photos in that great evening light. Definitely a highlight of a visit to the city of Milan! A MUST-SEE in my book.

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From journal One Day in Milan

Beautiful views from the roof of Milan

by Zhebiton

Moscow, Moskva, Russia

December 18, 2010

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The world's largest Gothic church was built over four centuries and was fully completed only by mid-XIX century. More recently, the facade of the cathedral was closed for restoration. Completely open from the woods I saw him just this year. Going ...Read more

From journal Best place for shopping

This Is One of the Largest Gothic Buildings

by Zhebiton

Moscow, Moskva, Russia

July 15, 2010

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Center Milan fabulously beautiful. The most outstanding architectural building is the Duomo, the cathedral. Duomo is striking by its grandeur and size. Its length is 158 meters, height 108.5, width 93 meters. Outside the cathedral is decorated with ...Read more

From journal Best place for shopping

Most Impressive Cathedral I've Ever Seen

by henrik_rrb

Gothenburg, Sweden

January 25, 2010

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Best of IgoUgo It took them more than 500 years to finish Il Duomo, so it shouldn't come as a surprise that the cathedral in Milan is truly amazing. The moment you come around the corner to the piazza, or exit the metro tunnels, your jaw will drop in pure surprise ...Read more

Milan's Gothic Masterpiece

by airynfaerie

St. Augustine, Florida

October 28, 2009

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Best of IgoUgo Undoubtedly, Milan's most well-known building is the Cathedral, or Duomo, which is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Located in the center of the city in the Piazza del Duomo, this massive church is rich with ornate details and a popular ...Read more Undoubtedly, Milan's most well-known building is the Cathedral, or Duomo, which is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Located in the center of the city in the Piazza del Duomo, this massive church is rich with ornate details and a popular site for tourists.

Known for it's lengthy completion process, lasting over 500 years, this cathedral was began in 1386 and fits over 40,000 occupants inside. A free visit inside the church, this makes the visit even that much more appealing, as do the long hours that it remains open (daily 7am-7pm). Definitely a must-see for any visitor to Milan, this is probably most tourists very first stop, and the piazza is one of the central stops for the city's public transportation system and a great starting point for any other visits.

Approaching the entrance, once can notice the immense detail on the exterior, with sculptures and ornaments filling every space. The spires along the roofline reach higher and higher as you get closer. Then when you walk inside, the massive interior is almost too much to take in at once. With the large naves, huge pillars, and overwhelming stained glass. There are several spaces to explore inside (some extra fees charged), including the crypt with several notable remains, the baptistery
with the ruins of the older church once housed on this space, and entrance to the roof. Here visitors can get a view over this massive city and even on clear days, a view of the Alps in the distance.

One can easily spend a couple hours here depending on the extent of the sites they want to explore on the site, but even if you don't want to see all the extras like the museum, roof, or baptistry, just a visit into this massive and noteworthy cathedral is by far worth your time. It's Milan's most famous structure, and one that will make you wonder in the architectural detail.

• Piazza del Duomo
• Metro stop: Duomo
• Open daily 7am - 7pm
• Free admission (Roof: 4euro)
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From journals A Day in Milan, One Day in Milan

Duomo

by pointofnoreturn

Ottawa, Ontario

July 27, 2007

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This church in Milan is one of the largest in the world and took just over 500 years to complete. The inside of the cathedral is a sight to behold for there are hundreds of statues and gargoyles. It is hard to describe this cathedral in words - it ...Read more

From journal Milan Madness

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Milan Cathedral (Duomo)

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The day my knees crumbled

Thought I'd Died and Gone to Heaven

A Matter of Scale

Milan Cathedral (Duomo)

A Visit to the Rooftop in Milan

Beautiful views from the roof of Milan

This Is One of the Largest Gothic Buildings

Most Impressive Cathedral I've Ever Seen

Milan's Gothic Masterpiece

Duomo

Milan Cathedral (Duomo)

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The day my knees crumbled

Thought I'd Died and Gone to Heaven

A Matter of Scale

Milan Cathedral (Duomo)

A Visit to the Rooftop in Milan

Beautiful views from the roof of Milan

This Is One of the Largest Gothic Buildings

Most Impressive Cathedral I've Ever Seen

Milan's Gothic Masterpiece

Duomo