The Duomo di Milano also known as the Milan Cathedral isn’t just a cathedral turned into a popular tourist spot, it’s a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a timeless symbol of Milan. Millions of people from all over the world know this attraction for its iconic spires and grand façade. However, this architectural marvel holds countless secrets and fascinating stories within its walls that are known to almost no one.
Beyond its breathtaking exterior lies a treasure trove of surprising facts that reveal the ingenuity, history, and cultural significance of this extraordinary landmark. Here are 10 amazing facts about Duomo di Milano that will give you a fresh perspective on this beloved icon.
1. The Largest Gothic Church in the World and the Largest Church in Italy
Yes, you read that right! The Duomo di Milano isn’t just the largest church in Italy but it also holds the title of being the largest Gothic church in the world. While St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City is technically the largest church in the world, the Milan Cathedral claims the title of the largest church in Italy, as Vatican City is an independent nation.
Construction of this monumental cathedral began in 1386, reflecting Milan’s ambition and dedication to Gothic artistry. Spanning an impressive 11,700 square meters and capable of accommodating over 40,000 worshippers, the Duomo stands as a testament to human perseverance and creativity. It is not only a cultural and religious symbol for Milan but also a masterpiece admired by millions of visitors every year.
2. Duomo di Milano is built on the remains of an ancient church
The Duomo di Milano was built on a site rich with historical and religious significance. The ancient Basilicas of Santa Tecla and Santa Maria Maggiore once stood here, serving as places of worship long before the cathedral.
Visitors can explore the remains of these early churches beneath the cathedral, including the Baptistery of San Giovanni alle Fonti, where St. Augustine was baptized in 387 AD. This hidden underground treasure showcases the site’s deep Roman, early Christian, and medieval roots, linking the cathedral to centuries of religious history.
3. There are 3400 statues in Duomo di Milano
The building features 3,400 statues, depicting saints, biblical figures, and angels. Most of these statues were designed by famous Renaissance artists. The purpose of these statues was to inspire faith and glorify the divine.
One of the most known statues at Duomo di Milano is sculpted by Marco d’Agrate which represents Saint Bartholomew with his flayed skin as his martyrdom symbol. These statues, all over the cathedral contribute to its status as an open-air museum.
4. It took over 6 centuries to construct Duomo di Milano
The construction of the Duomo di Milano began in 1386 and spanned more than 600 years, involving 78 architects and countless artisans. It remains one of the longest architectural projects in history.
This prolonged timeline reflects the blending of styles, from Gothic to neo-Gothic, visible in the cathedral’s intricate details. The final touches were only completed in the 20th century, making the Duomo a living timeline of architectural evolution.
Its 135 spires and 3,400 statues are a testament to the dedication and artistry of generations of craftsmen.
5. The Madonnina was once the highest point in Milan
The golden statue of the Virgin Mary on top of the Duomo di Milano is known as the Madonnina, and it has been a symbol of protection for the entire city since 1774.
Standing at 108.5 meters tall, which was the highest point of religious and secular buildings in all of Milan, it was meant to be seen from all around the town. The statue was originally made of gilded copper but was replaced by stainless steel and copper in the late 1960s.
The stunning landmark still serves as a guardian figure for the city.
6. There is a sundial in the cathedral
The sundial at Duomo was installed in 1786, tastefully integrating science and religion. It also shows the growing interest of people in astronomy in that era.
It includes a brass rod aligned with zodiac signs near the entrance, and the sunlight illuminates the corresponding sign at noon.
The sundial marks important times like the winter and summer solstices being perfectly accurate and is used to regulate all the clocks in the city.
7. The Doors of Milan Cathedral narrate a tale
The bronze doors of the Duomo di Milano were crafted between the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th centuries. It adorns the church with visual narrations of important episodes of the Christian heritage, relating to the life of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints.
These doors are made of solid bronze, weighing several tons, specially meant to enable access to the sacred history for one and all. They form part of the artistic-religious inheritance of the cathedral and provide visitors with a pathway through a journey of faith.
8. A Nail used to crucify Jesus is now in the Milan Cathedral
The Milan cathedral is believed to contain an original nail from the crucifixion of Jesus, which was brought by St. Helena to Milan in the 4th century. The nail is kept in a tabernacle created above the altar, a red bulb signifying its location.
Every year, on the Saturday closest to September 14, the Archbishop of Milan goes up in a wooden basket to retrieve the nail and display it at the altar till the Monday after vespers. This is how Milan marks its historical significance and its irreplaceable role in venerating sacred relics.
9. Duomo di Milano is the only church where you can walk all over the rooftop
This is the only church where visitors can walk on its rooftop, enjoying a breathtaking view of Milan. It also gives a close-up view of the 135 spires and 3400 statues that are perched up there.
It can be accessed by both an elevator and stairs and makes for a unique event to admire the detailed craftsmanship of the cathedral. This unparalleled access allows for a deeper appreciation of the craftsmanship and artistry that went into every detail of the cathedral’s design.
10. The Cathedral houses the largest organ in the country
The Duomo di Milano houses the largest pipe organ in Italy and one of the largest in the world. This magnificent instrument has over 15,000 pipes, ranging from a few centimeters to several meters in length.
Installed in the 16th century and regularly restored, the organ is a marvel of engineering, combining metal and wooden pipes to produce its powerful sound. It plays a vital role in liturgies, concerts, and special events, embodying the grandeur and cultural significance of the cathedral.