MILAN, Lombardy — The Duomo in Milan, a world-famous Gothic cathedral, draws more than 5 million visitors each year with its spectacular architecture and historical significance. The cathedral, often compared to the Eiffel Tower in Paris for its iconic status within its city, is a must-visit landmark.
Construction of the Catholic Gothic Church spanned six centuries, resulting in a structure that appears to be constantly undergoing renovation. It stands as the largest church in Italy, adorned with 3,400 statues and stained glass windows.
Towering 365 feet above the city, the gilded Madonnina, or Little Madonna, is a defining feature of the Duomo. Historically, a law stipulated that no other building in Milan could exceed its height. While modern skyscrapers have surpassed the Duomo, many incorporate a small replica of the Madonnina at their peaks as a tribute.
The area surrounding the Duomo, Piazza del Duomo, is a popular destination for tourists. However, a new attraction has recently emerged: the presence of a news crew broadcasting live from a terrace across from the cathedral during the Milan Cortina Olympics. Hearst Olympic correspondent Deirdre Fitzpatrick noted the enthusiastic response from visitors, who have been waving and taking pictures of the crew.
“It would appear that it is us,” Fitzpatrick said. “We’ve had a real kick while we’ve been doing our live shots up on top of this building across from the Duomo of visitors waving at us and taking our pictures.”
The Duomo’s significance extends beyond its architectural grandeur. It represents a rich historical and cultural heritage, attracting visitors from around the globe. With the ability to accommodate up to 40,000 people, the Duomo di Milan is one of the largest Catholic churches globally.
