A highlight of our visit to Milan was a tour of La Scala, as the Teatro alla Scala is locally known, which was built at the end of the eighteenth century.The exterior of the Scala is rather unassuming for such an important building, probably because it was originally located on a narrow street. In contrast with the exterior, the building's interior is sumptuous. Its foyer is decorated with fluted columns and large mirrors line the walls. The auditorium, known for its exceptional acoustics, has a seating capacity of just over two thousand. It is lavishly decorated with red velvet, silk and gilded stucco. The opera house was destroyed during the bombardments of Milan in 1943. It was the first public building that was reconstructed after the war and it opened on 11 May 1946.
The Duomo di Milano, Milan's magnificent Gothic cathedral, is one of the world's largest churches. Its dazzling white front facade, arguably the world's most beautiful, dominates the cathedral square. We thought it much more impressive than the Duomo in Florence.
After exploring the inside, we took a fascinating trip to the Duomo's roof via an elevator then 110 steps in various stages. It's amazing to walk among the forest of spires and the view from the roof is unmatched. It was a clear day and we could see as far as the Alps and Apennines. From a height of about 70 meters the view is breathtaking, framed by myriads of statues and pinnacles. The roofs are covered in slabs of Candoglia marble, in a total area of 8,000 square meters.
There is something so satisfying about climbing all the way to the top through winding narrow passageways to finally be rewarded with such a magnificent view!
After exploring the inside, we took a fascinating trip to the Duomo's roof via an elevator then 110 steps in various stages. It's amazing to walk among the forest of spires and the view from the roof is unmatched. It was a clear day and we could see as far as the Alps and Apennines. From a height of about 70 meters the view is breathtaking, framed by myriads of statues and pinnacles. The roofs are covered in slabs of Candoglia marble, in a total area of 8,000 square meters.
There is something so satisfying about climbing all the way to the top through winding narrow passageways to finally be rewarded with such a magnificent view!
We were very happy in Milan and with our stay at Milano Bella and our host Martin. The B&B consists of two large rooms with ensuites and is immaculately clean. We stayed in the blue room which has a little terrace overlooking the internal courtyard and 'The Buttery' which used to process milk into butter in the old days. The room was very comfortable and it is very close to the Metro although we just walked everywhere. There is very fast wifi. The Milano Bella is 20 minutes walk from the Duomo and the centre of Milan so convenient, a two minute walk to great shopping and a supermarket opposite. The breakfasts which Martin provided for us were great, fabulous warm croissants, fresh breadrolls, yoghurt, fruit, coffee and juices. There is a shared breakfast room and living area to use as well. We would highly recommend this accommodation.