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The Historical Evolution of the Milan Cathedral: Italy's Gothic Masterpiece

The Milan Cathedral, known in Italian as the Duomo di Milano, stands as one of the largest and most impressive Gothic cathedrals in the world. Construction began in 1386 under the rule of Gian Galeazzo Visconti, the first Duke of Milan, and it took nearly six centuries to complete. This ambitious project, initially envisioned as a symbol of Milanese power and religious devotion, became a labor of generations, involving countless architects, sculptors, and artisans. Each contributed their unique touch to the Duomo, making it a masterpiece of both Italian and European Gothic architecture.

The cathedral’s architectural design reflects a blend of French Gothic, Italian Renaissance, and later, neo-Gothic styles. The choice to use Candoglia marble, sourced from quarries near Lake Maggiore, adds a distinctive pinkish hue that gives the Duomo its signature appearance. Over time, the Milan Cathedral evolved to incorporate elements from different artistic movements, making it a showcase of historical architectural trends.