The Duomo di Milano: A Gothic Marvel in the Heart of Milan

It's time to visit the Gothic marvel of the Duomo di Milano, in the heart of Milan. Explore its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking rooftop views.

Admiring the views on top of the Duomo di Milano. Photo by Andrea Richer-Simon.

The Duomo di Milano isn’t just a cathedral—it’s the soul of the city. Standing proudly at the centre of Milan, this Gothic masterpiece took nearly six centuries to complete (wild, huh?), and every detail tells a story of ambition, artistry, and devotion. Its construction began in 1386 under the orders of Gian Galeazzo Visconti, and over the years, countless architects, sculptors, and craftsmen contributed to its grandeur. Plus, fun fact, the 'Milan Cathedral' is called the Metropolitan Cathedral-Basilica of the Nativity of Saint Mary in full (or, in Italian, Basilica cattedrale metropolitana di Santa Maria Nascente).

With its spires reaching toward the heavens, its intricate marble façade, and its famous Madonnina statue perched at the very top, the Duomo is more than just a church—it’s Milan’s most treasured symbol (and, in my opinion, the one thing you must visit while in the city). It has seen centuries of change, from Napoleon’s coronation to modern-day crowds gathered in awe, proving that some landmarks never lose their magic.

My First Encounter with the Duomo di Milano

The vaulted ceilings within the Duomo di Milano. Photo by Emily Fata.

The first time I laid eyes on the Duomo di Milano, it was one of those pinch-me moments. It was September 2023, and I was on an afternoon trip to Milan with my cousin, strolling through the city with no real plan other than seeing this church and meeting up with a friend who lived there. As we stepped out of the metro station and into Piazza del Duomo, there it was: massive, breathtaking, and glowing in the golden afternoon sun.

Its sheer size is impossible to grasp until you’re standing right in front of it, craning your neck to take it all in, especially as you walk closer to its entrance. I spent ages admiring the details around the entire perimeter of the structure—the hundreds of statues, the delicate carvings, the play of light on the marble. 

Milan may be known for fashion, but this cathedral? This was haute couture in architectural form.

Seeing the Duomo a Second Time

Fast forward to November 2024, and I found myself in front of the Duomo once again, but this time with my mom. She had come to visit me while I was living in Milan, and I couldn’t wait to share this experience with her. Seeing the Duomo for the second time was just as magical—if not more so—because I got to experience her reaction, too. The awe on her face mirrored exactly how I had felt the year before. This time, though, we did something extra special: we went up to the rooftop.

Walking up to the rooftop of the Duomo is like stepping into a dream. You know, minus the part where you actually have to walk up what feels like a billion steps to get there, feeling a shock of anxiety every time you see a sign that says to not idle on the stairs, and you think, But if I don’t stop for a couple of minutes to catch my breath, my out-of-shape body might succumb to certain death.

Details of the Duomo's stunning exterior architecture. Photo by Emily Fata.

The views over Milan once you reach the top, though, are spectacular. With the city’s historic rooftops stretching out in every direction, you understand instantly that the trek up to the top was well worth the effort. It’s not just about the view, however—the real magic is being up close to the cathedral’s famous spires. Seeing them from the ground is one thing, but standing among them, touching the cool marble, and admiring the intricate carvings from up close is something else entirely.

It’s a perspective few cathedrals offer, and it makes you appreciate just how much work went into this masterpiece. If you visit Milan and skip the rooftop, you’re missing out on one of the best experiences in the city, in my opinion.

A Journey Through History Inside the Duomo

Stepping inside the Duomo di Milano feels like entering another world, and both times I was inside, I felt that same sense of awe. The vast interior is dimly lit, with towering columns stretching toward the vaulted ceiling. Stained glass windows cast colourful patterns onto the marble floors, and there’s a hushed reverence in the air, broken only by the soft whispers of visitors. The sheer scale of the cathedral is staggering, but it’s the details that truly impress.

The Duomo is home to countless treasures, including stunning frescoes, intricately carved altars, and even a nail believed to be from the crucifixion of Christ, housed in a small red light high above the altar. There’s also the famous statue of Saint Bartholomew Flayed, an unsettling yet incredible piece of Renaissance sculpture showing the saint holding his own skin. It’s both eerie and fascinating—a testament to the artistic mastery that went into every corner of this cathedral. Besides, who doesn’t love seeing a piece of dark history in the flesh (ha ha, pun definitely intended)?

The Duomo Museum: An Underrated Gem

My first time at the Duomo. Photo by Vittoria Urzetta.

If you visit the Duomo, don’t stop at the cathedral—make time for the Duomo Museum, as well. Included in the ticket price, this museum is just a short walk away and offers a fascinating look at the history and artistry behind the cathedral. Many of the original sculptures, tapestries, and stained glass panels that once adorned the Duomo are housed here, protected from the elements. Seeing these up close gives you an even deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship that went into the cathedral.

I didn’t have enough time to see it the first time around, but I’m so glad my mom and I went to see it the second time I visited. The museum also provides insight into the incredible effort it took to build and maintain the Duomo over the centuries. There are sketches, models, and even tools used by the artisans, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the evolution of this architectural marvel. Plus, it’s a great way to escape the crowds and take in the details at your own pace. After spending time in the bustling Piazza del Duomo, stepping into this quiet, informative space is a welcome change of pace.

Why You Absolutely Need to Visit the Duomo di Milano

Whether you’re an architecture buff, a history lover, or simply someone who appreciates jaw-dropping beauty, the Duomo di Milano is a must-visit. It’s the kind of place that leaves a lasting impression, no matter how many times you see it. The grand exterior, the awe-inspiring interior, the unbeatable rooftop views, and the fascinating museum all combine to create an experience that’s uniquely Milanese.

Milan is a city full of surprises, blending centuries-old history with cutting-edge modernity, and nowhere is that contrast more evident than in Piazza del Duomo. One moment, you’re admiring a Gothic cathedral that took centuries to complete; the next, you’re sipping an espresso at a stylish café just steps away. It’s this mix of old and new that makes Milan quite special—and the Duomo is at the heart of it all.

Stained glass windows inside of the Duomo di Milano. Photo by Emily Fata.

All in All

If Milan is calling your name, make sure the Duomo di Milano is at the top of your must-see list. Whether you’re gazing up at its magnificent façade, wandering through its vast interior, marvelling at the city from its rooftop, or exploring its hidden gems in the museum, this cathedral is an experience you won’t forget. 

There’s something magical about seeing it in person—no photo can truly capture its grandeur. So book that trip, grab your camera, and get ready to be amazed. Milan is waiting, and the Duomo is ready to take your breath away.

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#Europe #Italy #Lombardy #Milan #history #architecture #museum