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Cathedral · Milão, Lombardia
Duomo di Milano
The Gothic marble cathedral in the heart of Milão, with thousands of statues, huge stained-glass windows and roof terraces among the spires, offering views over the city.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Duomo di Milano
The Duomo di Milano is the city's cathedral and one of the largest churches in the Christian world. Construction began in 1386 at the request of the lord of Milão, Gian Galeazzo Visconti, and continued for centuries: the façade was only completed in the early 19th century by order of Napoleon. The material is the pink Candoglia marble, which the Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo, created for the work, still extracts today for maintenance.
Inside, five naves separated by tall pillars lead to the altar. The stained-glass windows are among the largest in the world and tell Bible stories in colored panels. Near the entrance stands the statue of Saint Bartholomew flayed, by Marco d'Agrate, notable for its realism. In the subsoil, the archaeological area shows remains of the old baptistery where, according to tradition, Saint Ambrose baptized Saint Augustine.
The most sought-after spot is the terraces. You can climb by staircase or take the elevator and walk among spires, arches and statues, with views over the square and, on clear days, to the Alps. At the top of the highest spire is the Madonnina, a gilded statue from 1774 that became a symbol of Milão.
The visit uses different tickets for the cathedral, the terraces, the museum and the archaeological area. Advance purchase with a timed entry is recommended, especially for the terraces. There is a security check at the entrance, and shoulders and knees must be covered.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 h for the interior; another 1 h for the terraces. Add 1 h if including the Museo del Duomo.
Best time
Right at opening the line is shorter. The terraces are nicest in the late afternoon, with low light on the marble; on clear days you can often see the Alps to the north.
How to get there
Metro lines M1 (red) and M3 (yellow), Duomo station, which opens onto the square. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and the Teatro alla Scala are a few minutes' walk away.
Tip
The stairway to the terraces has over 200 steps; the elevator costs more but saves the climb. Buy a ticket for a set time and arrive with extra time because of the security check. Wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Duomo di Milano
Do I need to buy a ticket in advance?
It is recommended. Timed tickets for the cathedral and especially for the terraces sell out on the busiest days. Check the options before you go.
What's the difference between going up by stairs and by elevator?
The elevator takes you almost to the terrace level and costs more; the stairs have more than 200 steps. Up there the route is the same, with stretches of steps between the roof levels.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the cathedral. A scarf or light jacket works in summer.
What is the Madonnina?
It is the gilded statue of the Virgin Mary placed in 1774 on the top of the Duomo's highest spire. It became a symbol of Milan and can be seen up close from the terraces.