Milano Monuments
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Milan's many cathedrals are popular tourist attractions.
milan cathedral image by rrruss from Fotolia.com
Located in the northern region of Lombardy, Milan, or Milano, is Italy's economic capital and largest metropolitan area. Once an important city in the Roman empire, Milan passed through the hands of many powerful conquering forces for hundreds of years. The complex cultural legacy left to Milan after so many years of change is written in the monuments and important historical buildings found throughout the city. Although Milan is not the most visited city in Italy, there is still a great deal to see and do.
Duomo of Milan
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The Duomo of Milan, one of the largest cathedrals in Europe, is one of the most prominent sightseeing destinations in the city. Properly called the "Cathedral Santa Maria Nascente," it is more commonly known by its informal name, "the Duomo." Construction began on the cathedral in 1386, but the monument was continually built upon until the 19th century. The architectural styles present in the structure reflect its long history of renovation. Despite not being strictly "gothic" in style, it is considered the most important work of gothic architecture in Italy. Visitors can access the terraced roof of the Duomo by elevator or stairs in order to admire the elaborate marble statuary and expansive city views.
Duomo of Milan
Piazza Duomo, 18
Milano, Italy
011-39-02-463-456
Santa Maria delle Grazie
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Santa Maria delle Grazie is a Dominican convent located in the city of Milan. Best known as the home of Leonardo Da Vinci's mural "The Last Supper," the convent is a major monument to northern Italian Renaissance artistry. Much of the convent is off-limits to visitors, but Da Vinci's mural is open to the public. Considered to be a World Heritage site by UNESCO, Santa Maria delle Grazie was listed as a monument of great cultural significance in 1980. The monument is open Tuesday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Admission to the church is free, although viewings of the mural cost a small fee and tickets must be booked in advance.
Santa Maria delle Grazie
Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2
20123 Milano, Italy
011-39-02-8942-1146
cenacolovinciano.org
Castello Sforzesco
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Built in 1368, the Castello Sforzesco (Sforza Castle) was originally constructed to be a fortress that protected the northwestern corner of Milan. It was enlarged and improved upon for many years, but lost its strategic importance. The castle eventually became a private residence in the 15th century for the Lord of Milan, Francesco Sforza. After nearly being destroyed by government mandate in 1880, the castle was saved and restored by architect Luca Beltrami and it is now one of the most visited sites in Milan. The monument is home to numerous attractions, including a museum complex and several works by Renaissance master, Michelangelo, including his final and unfinished work, the "Rondanini Pieta." The castle is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the summer season and 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the winter. Admission is free to the castle, although the museum complex charges a fee.
Castello Sforzesco
Piazza Castello, 3
20121 Milano, Italy
011-39-02-8846-3700
milanocastello.it
Arco della Pace
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The Arco della Pace or "Arch of Peace" was originally constructed in 1807 to commemorate Napoleon Bonaparte's victories, although work was interrupted after his defeat at Waterloo. After the city and region passed into the hands of Ferdinand I, work was resumed and in 1838 the monument was inaugurated. The bronze and marble statuary and arch are an important neoclassical monument in Milan, which has few works from that era. Located in the northwest area of the city near the Castello Sforzesco, the Arco della Pace is free to visit.
Arco della Pace
Piazza Sempione
Milano, Italy
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