Duomo Uncovered
Written by admin on 20 January, 2009 – 10:51 pm -
“What a wonder it is! So grand, so solemn, so vast! And yet so delicate, so airy, so graceful! A very world of solid weight, and yet it seems …a delusion of frostwork that might vanish with a breath!…”
This is how Mark Twain described Milan’s Duomo in The Innocents Abroad (a collection of travel letters written during his time in Europe and the Middle East). You may or may not agree with him, but for the first time in several years, after a massive clean-up and restoration project, it is once again possible to see the facade of this overpowering cathedral.
Taking down the scaffolding from Duomo facade
For what it’s worth, I have a great fondness for Il Duomo. It is more than just a place of worship. It has many different perspectives, I could gaze in wonder at it for hours on end. It’s almost a living, breathing being. Maybe viewing my collection of photos below will help demonstrate better.
Duomo Gallery
Please click on the thumbnails for slideshow and more information about the photos.
By the way, I highly recommend a rooftop visit on a nice clear day. Spectacular.
Duomo: Key Facts
- Second largest Catholic cathedral (after Seville)
- Construction started: 1386
- Construction completed: 1965
- Length: 157m
- Width: 92m
- Height: 45m
- Spire Height: 106.5m
- Materials: Brick and Candoglia marble
Information
Address: Piazza del Duomo, Milan, Italy, 20123
Tel: +39 (02) 86463456
Metro: Duomo
Official site: www.duomomilano.it
For a live view of the Duomo check out the webcam
Duomo as seen by the milancam
Posted in Travel |
By MDs on Jan 21, 2009 | Reply
My favourite Duomo. Beautiful photos, and as you say fabulous views from the rooftop.
By G@ttoGiallo on Jan 23, 2009 | Reply
Nice post, nice pics, Mike.
By Antonella on Jan 24, 2009 | Reply
The Duomo di Milano is a magnificent masterpiece and your photos show it in all its splendor! Since I was a child I have always been in awe of the Duomo. I have always been afraid that it could fall over me!!! Still now I feel a bit uneasy looking up…Ciao again. Antonella
PS Stupendo ricoperto di neve!
By Mike Coyle on Jan 24, 2009 | Reply
“Grazie a tutti” for the comments. Duomo is certainly an amazing cathedral and touches everyone in a different way. Glad you enjoyed this post.
By Silvia on Jan 24, 2009 | Reply
What a wonderful site. It’s a delight to navigate, full of curiosities and information about Italy.
Well done!!!
By Blognote on Jan 28, 2009 | Reply
Un effetto molto particolare. Bravo!