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Milan's Cathedral: 600 Years in Construction with Laura Benitti

Milan's Cathedral: 600 Years in Construction with Laura Benitti


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Can't make this time? A video recording will be sent to all participants after the seminar.

Context's Before You Go online seminars are designed for travelers looking to enhance their in-person experiences at famous landmark destinations in cities around the world.

Join us for an interactive discussion featuring the exquisite architecture of Milan's Cathedral. Duomo di Milano has dominated Milan's skyline for centuries, inspires artists and tourists alike, and is now available to explore In Context.  Together we will review tales from moments in history this majestic building has borne witness to, as well as discuss its beautiful architecture.

Standing in front of the Milan Duomo, as we prepare for Context's Duomo Rooftop Tour: Milan From Above, many questions come to mind. Where does the magnificent pinkish-gray marble come from? Who was Carlo Borromeo? And where is the ‘Madonnina’?  Together we will answer these questions and enjoy the opportunity to ask our own questions to a scholar-guide based in Milan.

The cathedral took nearly 600 years to complete; its construction began in 1386, and the final details were completed in 1965. It is now the second-largest church in Italy and is the third-largest church in the world. With the accompaniment of our expert's photos and maps, we will virtually enter inside to answer frequently asked questions and learn about the construction of this remarkable landmark– including a special canal system which was created to transport the heavy marble.

Our discussion will also introduce the political figures and masterful artisans who have been protagonists throughout Milan Duomo's history. We will discuss the founder of the Milanese church Saint Ambrose, Leonardo da Vinci's connection to the blueprints, the Coronation of Napoleon (crowned King of Italy at the Duomo’s altar), and finally, follow Mussolini during the last days of his life in Milan.

Led by Laura Benitti, an expert art historian, this seminar will unveil Duomo's secrets as we interpret the sculptural clues left by its architects across time. Designed to inspire curiosity as well as future travel, this seminar will provide participants with the historical context to support their future visits to the city of Milan.

To explore available in-person Context Travel tours in Milan, we invite you to click here.

Laura was born in Turin, where she studied history of art, but moved to Milan in 2002. Since her graduation, she has accumulated a long experience as an art consultant and registrar in a few museums in Turin, as well as expertise as a local Milan guide. She loves to be both an experienced and friendly local ambassador of Milan and Como area for her travelers.

This conversation is suitable for all ages.

90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.

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