The Top 11 Things You Need to Know About Duomo di Milan Cathedral Before You Visit

Milan's Cathedral, or the Duomo di Milano, is one of the most iconic buildings in Italy, and with good reason. This stunning Gothic structure, which dominates Milan's skyline, is not only an impressive feat of engineering, but also a testament to the creativity and artistic vision of its creators. From its ornate facade to its breathtaking rooftop views, the Duomo di Milano is an awe-inspiring sight that draws millions of visitors every year. Here are 11 amazing facts about this iconic cathedral that you need to know before you go to see it for yourself!

1. It took almost six centuries to complete the cathedral, from the beginning of its construction in 1386 until the final details were finished in the 1960s.
2. The cathedral is made of Candoglia marble, which was quarried more than 50 miles away from the construction site and transported to the building site using canals and rivers.
3. The Duomo is home to over 3,400 statues, more than any other building in the world.
4. The cathedral's most famous statue is the Madonnina, a gilded bronze statue of the Virgin Mary that sits atop the main spire and serves as a symbol of Milan.
5. The cathedral has 135 spires and 2,245 marble statues decorating its facade, making it one of the most ornate buildings in the world.
6. The roof of the cathedral features a series of walkways and terraces, allowing visitors to take in stunning views of Milan from above.
7. The Duomo di Milano has survived numerous wars, including the Second World War, when the cathedral suffered damage from Allied bombing.
8. The Duomo is not only a stunning example of Gothic architecture, but it also features elements of Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles.
9. The cathedral is so large that it can hold up to 40,000 people at one time, making it one of the largest churches in the world.
10. The cathedral is also home to a number of important artworks, including tapestries, stained glass windows, and frescoes by some of Italy's most famous artists.
11. The Duomo is the most visited attraction in Milan, with over 5 million visitors every year. It is also one of the most popular sites in all of Italy, attracting tourists from around the world.