Climbing to the top of Milan’s Cathedral

  ItalyItalia's Travel Guide for Lombardy: Beatriz

To visit the Duomo is to visit the heart of Milan. Not only is this beautiful cathedral a main attraction for tourists from all over the world, but also its location undoubtedly marks the centre of the city. Close to the designer shops, elegant arcades and La Scala Opera House, Milan’s main streets radiate from the cathedral, which stands at 65 meters high, dominating the landscape.

Architecturally speaking, the Duomo has been described as one of the greatest churches of the world. It is the highest completed Gothic church in the world. Its vaults alone stand at 45 meters.

To appreciate the dimensions of the work you should take a look inside, but if you really want to appreciate the intricate sculptures, take a climb to the roof.

To reach the top you can opt to climb the 250 steps or take the lift. There is a small charge for each. Whichever way you arrive, you will find yourself on the terrace with splendid views and close-up encounters with carved saints and gargoyles. There are two levels to visit while walking amongst the white marble balustrades and spires. Take your time to explore, strolling under the canopy of buttresses or just sit down and look at the symbol of the city, the Madonnina.

This statue of the little Madonna is perched on the top of the Duomo’s tallest spire (108 meters), its gilded copper visible across the city since 1774. There is a law that states that no building in the city can be higher than the beloved 'Madonnina'. The Milanese consider a truly clear day one where you can see the statue from a distance, as she is often covered in mist.

Today the cathedral’s magnificent façade is visible again after undergoing 6 years of renovation which was finished in February 2009. The clear colours of the Candoglia marble shine again under the sun, rewarding visitors with the delicate contrast of its carvings.

Text and Photos by Beatriz Macias