Piazza Duomo in Milan: the guide
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Piazza Duomo in Milan is one of the emblematic places of the entire Italy. Often, the spires of the church dominating this area, which host the famous Madonnina, are a distinctive element of the city. In fact, the whole world knows and admires this corner that encapsulates history and glamour, fashion and traditions. People from all over the world gather at the café tables in Piazza Duomo for an aperitivo or a coffee. It's impossible to leave the city without visiting one of the most famous churches in the country. To fully enjoy every corner of this place, it's a good idea to know the details, places, and venues to note in your agenda. Here's how to reach Piazza Duomo and what to visit in the surrounding area
Piazza Duomo in Milan at the beginning of the 20th centuty – Wikipedia.
The square as we know it today began to take shape in 1458 when Francesco Sforza and the Fabbrica del Duomo received permission to demolish the Basilica of Santa Tecla.
This was done to create a square worthy of the cathedral, with its Gothic spires, just as it appears now. However, it was only in the 19th century that the square took on its current form. Architect Giuseppe Mengoni, between 1865 and 1873, expanded the cathedral's churchyard. Another significant step for this location occurred in 1865 when Vittorio Emanuele II initiated the construction of the gallery that bears his name. In the 20th century, the pavement was redesigned, and the metro station was opened. Today, Piazza Duomo in Milan proudly showcases its architectural beauty.
Here are our tips. Admiring Milan from the Duomo's terrace. One of the essential experiences for anyone visiting Milan and located in Piazza Duomo. It's certainly a must to enter the Duomo with its Gothic architecture, but this is also a structure to be discovered from the outside. Specifically on the terraces, thanks to the internal elevator, you can reach the roof and admire the spires up close. Even the oldest one, dating back to 1397 and constructed by the merchant Marco Carelli. But it’s the breathtaking view of the city that captivates the gaze: if you’re in Piazza Duomo, this is a must-see stop.
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is not just a place filled with luxury boutiques and historic cafes: strolling under the glass roofs and domes, one’s thoughts immediately go to the Parisian passages that encapsulate the wonders of the metropolis. There are also floors adorned with mosaics. Among the various traditions of Milan, there is the custom of walking on the image of the bull with one's heel, a superstitious gesture rooted in the rivalry with the city of Turin.
This tradition, repeated hundreds of times every day, has worn down the floor of the gallery.
This is one of the most important cultural hubs in the city. It has always been the venue for major exhibitions, a reference point for art lovers who have been able to attend exhibits featuring Picasso or those of Futurism over the years.
Places, Bars, and Restaurants to Remember
After visiting and strolling around Piazza del Duomo in Milan, it's fitting to take a break—perhaps with an aperitif on a terrace or a taste of the city's typical dishes. Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants located around this area.
• Maio Restaurant, Via Santa Radegonda 1 | Via San Raffaele, 2, 20121 Milan, Italy. Phone: +39 02 885 2455.
• Mozzarella e Basilico, Piazzetta Pattari 4, 20122 Milan. Phone: +39 02 8909 2613.
• Ristorante Giacomo Arengario, Via Guglielmo Marconi 1, 20123 Milan. Phone: +39 02 7209 3814.
• Terrazza Aperol, Piazza Duomo, corner of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Milan, Italy. Phone: +39 335 735 677.
What should you taste at a Milanese restaurant?
A nice risotto is definitely a great choice for the first course, while for the second course, you can’t go wrong with a cotoletta. Whether you're dining near the Duomo in Milan after arriving from the train station or coming in from a business trip, these dishes can truly enhance your experience. Additionally, renting a luxury car can make everything easier.
You can arrange for the vehicle to be waiting for you outside your hotel or apartment during your stay in Milan, ready to take you to the beautiful areas surrounding Piazza Duomo, one of the most sought-after spots in the city.
Where is Piazza Duomo located?
This square is situated in the city center of Milan, which has been regarded as the heart of the city both commercially and socially for several centuries. What are the most important features not to forget? The square covers an area of 17,000 square meters and is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Palazzo Arcivescovile, the Basilica Cattedrale Metropolitana della Natività della Beata Vergine Maria, commonly known as Milan Cathedral, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. To reach this location, you can take metro lines 1 or 3, getting off at the Duomo stop. Alternatively, you can use buses 54 and 73, as well as various trams..
We're certainly talking about a city symbol, a point of reference for both residents and visitors in Milan. It's clear that this corner of the city hides a centuries-old history. The Duomo was started in 1386 and is undoubtedly one of the structures that shaped the geometry of this magical place.The history of Milan's square
Piazza Duomo in Milan at the beginning of the 20th centuty – Wikipedia. The square as we know it today began to take shape in 1458 when Francesco Sforza and the Fabbrica del Duomo received permission to demolish the Basilica of Santa Tecla. This was done to create a square worthy of the cathedral, with its Gothic spires, just as it appears now. However, it was only in the 19th century that the square took on its current form. Architect Giuseppe Mengoni, between 1865 and 1873, expanded the cathedral's churchyard. Another significant step for this location occurred in 1865 when Vittorio Emanuele II initiated the construction of the gallery that bears his name. In the 20th century, the pavement was redesigned, and the metro station was opened. Today, Piazza Duomo in Milan proudly showcases its architectural beauty.
What to see and visti in Piazza Duomo
What to see and do in Piazza Duomo Upon arriving at this square, one of the largest and most famous in Italy, a question immediately arises:- What are the must-do activities for those who find themselves in this location?
- What can one do in the evening in Piazza Duomo or in the early afternoon?
- Are there any must-see attractions for tourists and visitors?
Here are our tips. Admiring Milan from the Duomo's terrace. One of the essential experiences for anyone visiting Milan and located in Piazza Duomo. It's certainly a must to enter the Duomo with its Gothic architecture, but this is also a structure to be discovered from the outside. Specifically on the terraces, thanks to the internal elevator, you can reach the roof and admire the spires up close. Even the oldest one, dating back to 1397 and constructed by the merchant Marco Carelli. But it’s the breathtaking view of the city that captivates the gaze: if you’re in Piazza Duomo, this is a must-see stop.
Shopping in one of the magical places
The square serves as a showcase for brands and boutiques eager to establish a presence in one of Italy’s most beautiful and famous locations. However, this is still the fashion capital, and it’s impossible to forget that from Piazza del Duomo in Milan, you can enter and reach the shopping streets of the city. Immerse yourself in culture and history at the Galleria, the historic commercial building that has long acted as a salon for Milan's bourgeoisie and has always represented a gathering place for social life.The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is not just a place filled with luxury boutiques and historic cafes: strolling under the glass roofs and domes, one’s thoughts immediately go to the Parisian passages that encapsulate the wonders of the metropolis. There are also floors adorned with mosaics. Among the various traditions of Milan, there is the custom of walking on the image of the bull with one's heel, a superstitious gesture rooted in the rivalry with the city of Turin.
This tradition, repeated hundreds of times every day, has worn down the floor of the gallery.
Tasting an aperitif in Piazza Duomo
There's no denying that Piazza Duomo in Milan is the chicest place in the city. For this reason, tasting an spritz at the tables of the bars hidden among the porticos of the buildings can be an unforgettable experience. Not to mention that many bars are located on panoramic terraces. Here, the aperitif becomes an unmissable ritual.
Visiting the Royal Palace of Milan
This is one of the most important cultural hubs in the city. It has always been the venue for major exhibitions, a reference point for art lovers who have been able to attend exhibits featuring Picasso or those of Futurism over the years.When is it possible to visit the Royal Palace?
The museum is open every day, including holidays. You can purchase tickets here: www.palazzorealemilano.it.
Places, Bars, and Restaurants to Remember
After visiting and strolling around Piazza del Duomo in Milan, it's fitting to take a break—perhaps with an aperitif on a terrace or a taste of the city's typical dishes. Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants located around this area.
What are the names to remember?
Here’s a list of places to consider:• Maio Restaurant, Via Santa Radegonda 1 | Via San Raffaele, 2, 20121 Milan, Italy. Phone: +39 02 885 2455.
• Mozzarella e Basilico, Piazzetta Pattari 4, 20122 Milan. Phone: +39 02 8909 2613.
• Ristorante Giacomo Arengario, Via Guglielmo Marconi 1, 20123 Milan. Phone: +39 02 7209 3814.
• Terrazza Aperol, Piazza Duomo, corner of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Milan, Italy. Phone: +39 335 735 677.
What should you taste at a Milanese restaurant?
A nice risotto is definitely a great choice for the first course, while for the second course, you can’t go wrong with a cotoletta. Whether you're dining near the Duomo in Milan after arriving from the train station or coming in from a business trip, these dishes can truly enhance your experience. Additionally, renting a luxury car can make everything easier.
You can arrange for the vehicle to be waiting for you outside your hotel or apartment during your stay in Milan, ready to take you to the beautiful areas surrounding Piazza Duomo, one of the most sought-after spots in the city.