The Duomo

This is the main religious monument in the city and the largest building which Gothic architecture erected in Italy. Situated in Piazza del Duomo, the geometric centre of Milan, it covers 11,500 square metres, is 158 metres long and 93 metres wide; it is topped by countless spires, the tallest being 109 metres. Its construction started in 1386, during the reign of Gian Galeazzo Visconti (the architect who designed it is unknown) and continued until the 19th century. A succession of Lombard, Campionese, French and German maestri acted as director of works.

The Castello Sforzesco

Originally founded by the Viscontis in the 14th century, it was called Castello di Porta Giovia (the Giovia Gate Castle) and was immediately outside the medieval walls. After its partial destruction during the ‘Repubblica Aurea’ (1447-50), it was rebuilt by Francesco Sforza as his residence. The castle continued to undergo refurbishment and extension work at every change of regime – firstly under Ludovico il Moro until 1499 and then, later, under Spanish dominion halfway through the 16th century, through to the French in the 19th century. Today, the appearance of the castle is the result of the most important renovation work – that of Luca Beltrami, between the 19th and 20th centuries, which reinvented the fortress with significant additions and changes.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele

The Gallery has been defined as the ‘Drawing-room of Milan’ and connects Piazza del Duomo with Piazza della Scala. It was created by G. Mengoni between 1865 and 1877 in the shape of a cross with a central octagon and glass and iron covering. It is the traditional meeting place for the Milanese and is considered one of the most important architectural creations of 19th century Milan.