Milan Things to Do Tips by MM212

il Duomo - the Roof Duomo Review

Visits to the roof of il Duomo are permitted during daylight hours and are highly recommended. Not only does one get close and personal with the cathedral's Gothic architecture, but one also gets the opportunity to admire panoramic views of the city. On a clear smog-free day, the nearby Alps are spectacularly visible. A lift/elevator is available for a slightly higher price, or you can brave the stairs. Beware though, even if you take the lift, there will be additional steps once you reach the top.

Address: Piazza del Duomo

Quadrilatero d'Oro Shopping or Fashion District Review

Milan is known as the fashion capital of Italy, so it is the centre of the industry. This is reflected in its glitzy shopping district located in the "Golden Quad" or Quadrilatero d'Oro where many of the original signature shops of top-end Italian designers are found. Gucci, Prada, Versace, and Armani to name a few. Other world-famous designers have a presence here too making the area quite a scene. A stroll down Via Spiga or Via Monte Napoleone, which define the Quad, is essential whether or not one has the extra cash to spend! All those Ferrari owners probably do...

Address: Via della Spiga - Via Monte Napoleone

il Duomo di Milano Duomo Review

Milano's architectural marvel, il Duomo, is the third largest cathedral in Europe, after St Peter's in Rome and Seville's. This spectacular Gothic masterpiece, with its lofty interior and extraordinary roof, is Milano's most important monument. The site of il Duomo has been one of worship going back to Roman times when the city was known as Mediolanum. A basilica stood on the site until it was destroyed in the 11th century by a fire. Construction of the existing Duomo later began in the 14th century and continued well into the 19th, when the façade was completed under the orders of Napoleon Bonaparte. Though the last touches were only finalised as late as 1965! Il Duomo has undergone major restoration work in recent years, but when I visited in December 2006, only the lower portion of the façade was still behind scaffolding. Not surprisingly, the unveiling is behind schedule... (For additional photos, click on my travelogue "il Duomo di Milano").

Address: Piazza del Duomo

Castello Sforzesco Castello Sforzesco Review

Castello Sforzesco was built in the 15th century after its 14th century predecessor was destroyed. The imposing building's main purpose was the defence of the city, though it later became the royal residence as well. Now it is open to visitors and houses a museum of antique art and furniture.

Address: Piazza Castello

Directions: Cairoli Metro Exit

Website: http://www.milanocastello.it

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Review

In the 19th century as Milan became the industrial centre of a unified Italy, the city increasingly looked to London and Paris as models for its urban development. Achievements in steel architecture in those two cities inspired the construction of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which was to become the symbol of modernity in the industrialised city of Milan. The result was this magnificent cross shaped Galleria linking Piazza della Scala with the city's centre, Piazza del Duomo. The entrance at Piazza del Duomo is in the form of a triumphal arch, clearly symbolic. The architectural details and the atmosphere of the interior are stunning. La Galleria continues to this day to be a showcase of luxury goods in this design-focused Italian city. For more photos, check out my travelogue Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Address: Piazza Duomo-Piazza della Scala

Directions: Metro 1 & 3 - Duomo

la Madonnina Duomo Review

Towering 108 metres above the city of Milano, atop the highest spire of il Duomo is the golden statue of la Madonnina. It was sculpted by Giuseppe Perego and crowned the cathedral in the 18th century. Since then, it has become the symbol of the city. The roof of the cathedral provides an unobstructed and closest view of la Madonnina.

Address: il Duomo

la Scala Teatro alla Scala Review

Teatro alla Scala, or la Scala, is one of the most renowned opera houses in the world. It was built in the 18th century after its preceeding theatre was destroyed in a fire. Since its completion, it has hosted the premieres of many of the world's famous operas (including Madame Butterfly) and served as a model for newer opera houses around the world. During World War II, la Scala was severely damaged, but was quickly rebuilt after the war.

Address: Piazza della Scala