Wycieczka audio po Mediolanie: Odkrywanie historycznych skarbów Mediolanu

At the top of the monument, you'll find a majestic statue of none other than Leonardo da Vinci himself. He stands as a testament to his genius and contributions to the world of art and science. But that's not all! The base of the monument showcases four full-length figures of Leonardo's pupils: Giovanni Antonio Boltraffio, Marco d'Oggiono, Cesare da Sesto, and Gian Giacomo Caprotti (also known as Andrea Salaino). These talented individuals were fortunate enough to learn from the great master himself. Now, the creation of this monument wasn't without its challenges. Sculptor Pietro Magni began working on it in 1858, but due to political changes and funding issues during Milan's transition from the Lombardo-Venetian Kingdom to the Kingdom of Sardinia and then to the Kingdom of Italy, the construction faced delays and criticisms. In fact, after its inauguration, many criticized the choice of its location and considered it a reminder of the Austrian administration. Interestingly, back in 1834, a noble and cultured Milanese citizen had planned to create a bronze monument to Leonardo at their own expense. Permission was even obtained from the Austrian government to place the monument in Brera's courtyard. However, this plan didn't come to fruition. Instead, the current monument design emerged from competitions held by the Academy of Fine Arts in Milan in 1856, eventually leading to the selection of Pietro Magni's "Think in marble" model. Emperor Franz Joseph himself decided that this proper tribute to Leonardo should be erected in Piazza San Fedele with a marble statue measuring 3.60 meters in height. Eventually, on December 22, 1858, the commission unanimously chose Magni's design, even though it required a budget larger than initially anticipated. Finally, after overcoming hurdles caused by the Second War of Independence, Magni received support from prominent figures like Urbano Rattazzi and Cavour, allowing him to bring this incredible monument to life. So, as you admire this monument, take a moment to appreciate the dedication and perseverance that went into preserving Leonardo da Vinci's legacy in Milan.

As you step inside, you'll be awestruck by the grandeur and elegance of this four-story double arcade. The Galleria consists of two intersecting glass-vaulted arcades that form an octagon, spanning the street connecting Piazza del Duomo to Piazza della Scala. The street itself is covered by a beautiful arching glass and cast iron roof, a design that was popular for 19th-century arcades. The central octagonal space is crowned with a stunning glass dome, allowing natural light to flood the gallery and creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. The size and scale of the Milanese Galleria set it apart from its predecessors, and it played a significant role in the evolution of modern shopping malls. As you explore, don't miss the four mosaics on the ground of the central octagonal space. These mosaics depict the coats of arms of the three capitals of the Kingdom of Italy - Turin, Florence, and Rome - as well as Milan's. Here's an interesting tradition: it is said that spinning around three times with a heel on the testicles of the bull from Turin coat of arms will bring you good luck. However, this practice has caused some damage to the mosaic, with a hole developing in the place of the bull's genitals. Beyond its architectural beauty, the Galleria is also a connecting point between two of Milan's most famous landmarks: the magnificent Duomo and the renowned Teatro Alla Scala. The gallery and its roof have been recognized as an important reference in 19th-century iron-and-glass architecture. The roof consists of four barrel vaults with a monumental dome, creating a unique and ethereal effect. It's worth noting that the construction of the Galleria involved international collaboration. The ironwork was produced by the French Atelier Henry Joret, while the glass plates were made by Saint-Gobain. The complex construction techniques used in the roof, including invisible reinforcements and glazing bars, make it a true architectural marvel. Unfortunately, the historical roof suffered heavy damage during World War II bombings, but it has undergone multiple maintenance interventions over the years to preserve its beauty and historical significance. As you continue your journey through Milan, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and historical importance of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and let its grandeur transport you to another time. Shall we move on to our next stop?

The construction of the Milan Cathedral spanned over six centuries, beginning in 1386 and finally completing all the intricate details in 1965. Its immense size makes it the largest church in the Italian Republic, only second to St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. In fact, it's the third largest cathedral in the world. The location of the cathedral is quite significant as well. The streets of Milan radiate from or encircle the Duomo, which indicates its central position in Roman Mediolanum, where the public basilica faced the forum. The first cathedral, dedicated to St. Thecla, was completed by 355, and a baptistery dating back to 335 can still be visited today beneath the cathedral. In 1075, a fire damaged the existing cathedral and basilica, prompting their reconstruction into the magnificent Duomo we see today. Archbishop Antonio da Saluzzo initiated the construction in 1386, coinciding with the rise to power of his cousin, Gian Galeazzo Visconti. The cathedral was meant to reward and uplift the noble and working classes who had suffered under the previous Visconti ruler. The enthusiasm for this grand project spread among the population, and large donations were collected to support its construction. The Fabbrica del Duomo, a management organization comprising 300 employees led by chief engineer Simone da Orsenigo, oversaw the regulation and progress of the work. Architects from France, such as Nicolas de Bonaventure and Jean Mignot, were brought in to contribute their expertise in Gothic architecture. The use of marble from the Candoglia quarry, generously granted by Gian Galeazzo, added to the grandeur of the cathedral. However, tensions arose between the Visconti family and the management of the factory overseeing the construction. Gian Galeazzo wanted to transform the cathedral into the mausoleum of the Visconti dynasty, which met strong opposition from both the factory and the people of Milan, who wanted to emphasize their autonomy. Despite these challenges, the construction of the Milan Cathedral persevered, and today we can witness its stunning beauty and architectural brilliance. So, let's take a closer look at this awe-inspiring masterpiece and continue our journey through Milan's rich history and culture!

Spanning over 7,000 square meters, the Royal Palace regularly collaborates with renowned museums and cultural institutions from around the world to bring incredible collections to its visitors. With more than 1,500 masterpieces on display annually, it truly showcases the best of the art world. Originally designed with two courtyards, the Palazzo had to make room for the grandeur of the nearby Duomo. However, it still retains its majestic presence, located to the right of the Duomo's facade and opposite the iconic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. The Palazzo's facade creates a recess in Piazza del Duomo, creating a stunning courtyard known as the Piazzetta Reale, or the "Small Royal Square." One of the Palazzo's most famous features is the Hall of Caryatids, located on the main floor. Unfortunately, this area suffered heavy damage during World War II's air raids, but it has been preserved and remains a testament to the resilience of this historic site. The origins of the Royal Palace can be traced back to medieval times when it was known as the "Palazzo del Broletto Vecchio" and served as the seat of the city's government. It later became a key political center under various ruling families, including the Torriani, Visconti, and Sforza households. After the construction of the magnificent Duomo Cathedral, the Palazzo underwent extensive renovations under the government of Francesco I Sforza. It was during this time that the court was moved from Castello Sforzesco to the Palazzo, cementing its status as the official residence. Over the years, the Palazzo saw further transformations and expansions. Notably, Governor Ferrante Gonzaga played a crucial role in turning it into a palace befitting a governor, with new rooms dedicated to official functions. To achieve this, the old church of Sant'Andrea al Muro Rotto was demolished, and a passageway was created to connect the Palazzo to the Church of San Gottardo, the court's official place of worship. In the late 16th century, the Royal Palace underwent another renovation under Governor Antonio de Guzman y Zúñiga, Marquis of Ayamonte. This time, Pellegrino Tibaldi, a trusted architect of Archbishop Charles Borromeo, oversaw the project. Tibaldi coordinated the redecoration of the apartments' porticoes, the private chapel, and the Church of San Gottardo, with contributions from esteemed artists of the time. The Royal Palace also boasted a Court Theater, completed during this period. Although it was sadly lost to a fire, it was the first of many theaters built in Milan, leading up to the construction of the renowned La Scala in the 18th century. The current theater at the Royal Palace was reconstructed in the early 18th century under the patronage of the Count of Loewenstein. Designed by Francesco Galli Bibbiena and his pupils Giandomenico Barbieri and Domenico Valmagini, it continues to enchant visitors with its beauty. So, indulge in the rich history and artistic treasures of the Royal Palace of Milan. It stands as a testament to the city's grandeur and will surely leave you in awe of its timeless beauty.

When you step inside, you'll be greeted by a vast collection of approximately 400 works of art, with the majority coming from talented Italian artists. As you explore the museum, you'll find an array of fascinating exhibits, from individual artists such as Giorgio de Chirico, Lucio Fontana, and Morandi, to artistic movements like the Italian Futurists, Abstractionism, Arte Povera, and more. One notable piece that demands attention is Giuseppe Pellizza da Volpedo's masterpiece, "Il Quarto Stato" (The Fourth Estate), a captivating and large canvas that once had a room dedicated solely to its presence. Keep in mind that starting in 2022, you can admire this remarkable artwork alongside other exceptional pieces. In addition to the exceptional collection curated inside the museum, the Museo del Novecento also received a generous donation from private collectors Bianca and Mario Bertolini. This donation introduced contemporary art works by renowned artists such as Daniel Buren, Joseph Kosuth, Roy Lichtenstein, Robert Rauschenberg, Frank Stella, and Andy Warhol. Don't forget to visit the museum's bookstore, where you can find an assortment of art-related literature, and once you've finished exploring, make your way up to the restaurant-bar on the top floor. From there, you'll enjoy a breathtaking view of the bustling Piazza del Duomo while savoring delicious cuisine. The Museo del Novecento is a haven for art enthusiasts and curious minds alike, offering a journey through the vibrant and ever-evolving landscape of twentieth-century art. So, let's continue our adventure and discover the next exciting stop on our tour of Milan!

Legend has it that the church is built on the very spot where Archbishop Anspertus erected a primitive place of worship dedicated to Saint Satyrus back in 879, making it a truly historic site. However, the current church that you see today was commissioned by Duchess Bona di Savoia and Duke Gian Galeazzo Sforza in the 15th century. While Donato Bramante is often credited with the design of the church, recent documents suggest that Giovanni Antonio Amadeo had a more significant role, especially in designing the façade. However, Bramante's touch can still be seen in the sacristy perspective, showcasing his remarkable talent. Inside the church, you'll find a nave and two aisles with a barrel vault, giving it a grand and spacious feel. The nave is crowned with a beautiful hemispherical dome where it intersects with the transept. As you explore, you'll also notice the Romanesque bell tower, a remnant of the church before the reconstruction in the 1480s. And don't forget to visit the baptistry, which dates back to the 15th century. Once adorned with white and gold paint, the interior of the church was a sight to behold. Unfortunately, the frescoes by Borgognone were transferred to the Pinacoteca di Brera, but the church still holds an altarpiece of the Extasis of St Philip Neri by Giuseppe Peroni. One of the most remarkable features of this church is the choir. Due to the presence of Via Falcone behind the church, Bramante had to truncate its depth to only 90 cm. However, he cleverly replaced it with a painted perspective, creating one of the earliest examples of trompe-l'œil in the history of art. As you explore Santa Maria presso San Satiro, take a moment to appreciate the centuries of history, the intricate architecture, and the artistic masterpieces it holds. It's a true gem within the vibrant city of Milan.

Built in 1321 by order of Matteo I Visconti, the powerful lord of Milan, the Loggia degli Osii was intended to house the city's judicial and notary activities. Its name is derived from the Osii family, who owned palaces in this area before the construction of the Loggia. Designed by the talented architect Scoto da San Gimignano, this magnificent building features a Gothic style portico and loggia on its facade. What makes it even more unique is the striking black and white marble decoration, which was not commonly seen in the Milanese Gothic structures of that time. This may have been a special homage to Matteo Visconti's wife, Valentina Doria. As you gaze upon the Loggia degli Osii, you'll notice the balcony, known as the parlera, where Milanese judges would stand to proclaim sentences and edicts. Adorned with an eagle holding its prey, a symbol of justice, this balcony served as a stage for the important legal proceedings that took place here. Above the two loggias, you'll find a series of triple mullioned windows, each one housing statues. These statues, created by talented craftsmen from Campione d'Italia and Tuscany, including Ugo da Campione and his son Giovanni, date back to the 14th century. These intricate sculptures add an air of grandeur and elegance to the Loggia's facade. As you stand in this historic square, take a moment to imagine the centuries of life that have unfolded here. The Loggia degli Osii is a testament to Milan's rich history and the power and prestige of the Visconti family. Enjoy the ambiance and let the stories of the past come to life in your imagination.