Inside Milan Cathedral: Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems
Inside Milan Cathedral: Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems
Milan Cathedral, the Duomo of Milano, is a cultural gem steeped in centuries of history and architectural splendor. This iconic landmark, celebrated for its Gothic grandeur, invites you to explore its captivating attractions inside.
Join us on this page as we unravel the enchanting wonders held within the heart of Milan Cathedral, and other highlights that awaits outside.
What is inside Milan Cathedral?
Uncover the attractions and hidden gems that make Milan Cathedral a must-see destination for anyone visiting Milan. Let’s take a look at some of the special features of the interior:
The Nave: Serving as the main body of the cathedral, the nave hosts the majority of religious services. Take a leisurely stroll along its expanse to marvel at the soaring arches and intricate stained-glass windows that adorn this sacred space. The nave’s architectural grandeur creates a serene atmosphere, inviting contemplation and reflection.
The Transepts: The transepts are the arms of the cathedral that intersect the nave, housing some of its most impressive artwork. Noteworthy features include the Trivulzio Monument and the Pala di San Gerolamo, contributing to the rich artistic tapestry within. These transepts serve as galleries of historical and artistic significance, offering a deeper connection to the cathedral’s cultural heritage
The Apse: The apse is the semi-circular area at the east end of the cathedral. It is home to the altar and the choir stalls. Within the reliquary, find the Sacro Chiodo, or Holy Nail, believed to be one of the nails from the Crucifixion of Christ. The apse, steeped in spiritual significance, becomes a focal point for worship and contemplation.
The Stained-Glass Windows: Admire the masterful craftsmanship of the cathedral’s stained-glass windows, portraying scenes from the Bible and the lives of saints, adding a radiant and spiritual dimension to the interior. The vibrant colors and intricate details of these windows create a luminous spectacle, enhancing the overall visual and spiritual experience.
The Organ: The cathedral’s organ has over 15,000 pipes. It stands as the largest and most complex in Italy and the eighth largest in the world, offering a sublime musical experience within the sacred space.
The Statue of Saint Bartholomew Flayed Alive: Unforgettable for its eerie gaze, meticulously sculpted muscles, and hauntingly detailed features, the statue vividly portrays St. Bartholomew, one of the twelve apostles, who suffered the gruesome fate of flaying and beheading.
The Archaeological Area: The archaeological area beneath the cathedral is a fascinating site that reveals the foundations of an ancient Roman bathhouse. Explore the baptistery and the past of the Church of Santa Tecla there, providing a glimpse into Milan’s rich historical layers.
Terraces/Rooftop: To access the cathedral’s terraces and savor the panoramic views, it’s essential to secure a special ticket. Elevate your visit by obtaining this ticket, allowing you to enjoy the unique perspective of Milan from the cathedral’s roof. Opt for the elevator to reach the summit and revel in panoramic vistas of Milan and beyond while getting up close to the enchanting gargoyles, statues, and architectural details.
What else makes Milan Cathedral special?
Beyond its captivating interior, Milan Cathedral reveals an array of architectural wonders outside. Here are the most noteworthy features you shouldn’t miss:
The Façade: The cathedral’s façade is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, adorned with countless spires, statues, and intricate carvings. Take some time to admire the intricate details of the façade and the stories they tell.
The Spires: The cathedral’s spires are one of its most defining features. These soaring structures are often adorned with intricate details and tell a unique story.
La Madonnina: Soaring 356 feet into the sky, the Madonnina Spire commands the skyline of Milan. A crowning jewel and the city’s most prominent landmark, this spire is graced by a golden statue of the Virgin Mary, crafted in 1774.
Porta Maggiore: The central door of the Milan Cathedral is a magnificent bronze portal adorned with intricate sculptures depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary. It is considered a masterpiece of Art Nouveau sculpture.
Milan Cathedral Museum: Extend your exploration by visiting the museum inside the Royal Palace, next to the Duomo. It is a treasure trove that delves deeper into the history and treasures of Milan Cathedral. Discover artifacts, sculptures, and the cathedral’s evolving narrative over time, enriching your understanding of this iconic landmark.
Milan Cathedral Square: This bustling square, adjacent to the cathedral, is a cultural hub housing the iconic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and the historic Palazzo Reale. With its equestrian statue of King Vittorio Emanuele II and events like street performances, the square complements the cathedral’s grandeur, offering a vibrant blend of history and modern life.
Milan Cathedral Tickets
Explore below our curated selection of Milan Cathedral tickets and guided tours:
Bestselling Milan Cathedral Entry Ticket
Duomo di Milano: Entry Ticket
1.6K+ Reviews
€11.50
Tiqets
“Great tool, few clicks and save the long queue for ticket. …”
Bestselling Milan Cathedral Rooftop Ticket
Duomo di Milano: Rooftop Access
2.2K+ Reviews
€19
Tiqets
“Many stairs to walk down even if you get lift up so be aware of that. Excellent experience, wonderful place thoroughly enjoyed the visit..”
Best-Value Milan Cathedral + Rooftop Access Ticket
Duomo di Milano: Entry Ticket + Rooftop Access
9K+ Reviews
€26
Tiqets
“It was easy to find the Museum for my entry point. The staff were all friendly and helpful and the Duomo was magnificent both the cathedral itself and the rooftop walk….”
Top-Rated Milan Cathedral & Rooftop Ticket with Fast Track Entry
Duomo di Milano: Fast Track Ticket + Rooftop Access
1K+ Reviews
€34
Tiqets
“Excellent, what a fantastic experience would recommend this….”
