M is for Milan and Monza

The Cathedral Il Duomo

It took 582 years to build Milan Cathedral.

The Duomo is decorated with an amazing number of beautifully sculpted statues and spires. There are more statues on this building than any other in the world, 3159 in total. These statues have been made and donated by numerous sculptors, they have been made in numerous styles - starting from the Gothic style and ending up with Art Deco from the 20th century.

 The Cathedral of Monza
The Duomo was built and developed on the site of Longobard oraclium, dated in 6th century AD and Queen Theodelinda dedicated it to John the Baptist. Acording to legnend of the Late Middle ages, Queen Theodelinda had made a vow to build a church in honor of God and saint John the Baptist and a celestial voice announced that the Holy Spirit would appear as dove to indicate the site for the constructions.
The Basilica of Monza was fully rebuilt after 1300 over the  ruins of Longobard church.

The Cathedral: Theodolinda's stories - Zavattari Brothers 1444 - detail

The Museum



Mother Hen with Chicks

The Museum and the Treasure of the Cathedral of Monza show one of the most important treasures in Europe.
17. - 20.5. 2003