February 2007: Milan – Il Duomo

The Duomo, which traditionally symbolizes the city of Milan, is the most extraordinary example of Italian late Gothic art. It ranks third in terms of dimension after the Saint Peter's Basilica at the Vatican in Rome and Seville's Cathedral. Located in the very heart of the city it represents both the core of the city and the unavoidable destination of countless visitors from Italy and abroad.The construction of the Duomo began in 1386 promoted by Gian Galeazzo Visconti, lord of Milan, and continued for centuries.The Duomo is entirely covered from its base with pinkish-white marble. Wide slabs of marble make up the roof of the Duomo which can be reached by a steep external staircase, consisting of 919 steps, carved between the left side and the transept. The effort of "climbing" the Duomo is highly rewarded by the magnificent view of the surrounding plain up to the Alps; should the weather be ungenerous it will still be possible to enjoy the vision of the "Madonnina" , the golden statue of the Virgin Mary, the 135 lace-like spires and the many statues which decorate the roof. On entering the majestic interior of the cross-shaped cathedral, the sight is captured by the polychrome stained glass windows depicting scenes from the life of the saints.