Look out any window in a Milan centre hotel – the architecture is sure to amaze you. From the historic centre to the environs of the city, Milan offers a variety of beautiful secular and religious structures. In A.D. 305, the city first became the capital of Western Europe. It retained this title for almost 100 years. Simultaneously, the city was the religious focal point of northern Italy. The resultant architectural beauties are one reason so many visitors come to Milan.

The Piazzo del Duomo – Gothic Cathedral and Palaces

Upon leaving your Milan centre hotel, head for the Piazza del Duomo. The plan for the Piazza is at the heart of medieval Milan. Streets radiate from here in all directions. Towering above your head, you will see the splendour of the white marble Gothic-style structure of the Duomo di Milano – the Cathedral of Milan.

Architects A. degli Organi, F. degli Organi, G. A. Amadeo, C. Solari, and P. Tibaldi contributed to its construction that began in 1386 and ended several hundred years later. This, the 4th largest church in the world, consists of a blend of various architectural styles including the original Gothic imported from France. The facade has a 17th century look, while the nave and several aisles date from the early 16th century.

The completed Duomo was host for the crowning of Napoelon as King of Italy in 1805. The cathedral is currently home to some fine monuments and artwork. Outside, look up – way, way up. On the tip of the tallest spire (109 m high), stands the Madonnina (Little Madonna) cast in 1774. The cathedral houses at least 96 gargoyles and countless statuary (approximately 3,400 statues). Inside, you can admire the three exquisite altars of P. Pellegrini, a magnificent marble altar in the transept, and the finely wrought Trivulzio Candelabra. A visit to the roof will provide you with breathtaking vistas of the city. You can see as far as the Alps on a clear day. Closer at hand, you can see all that Milan has to offer, including some of its fine palazzos.

The Palazzo Reale is a beautiful building. Damaged during World War II it currently houses an art gallery and museum. The fine arcade of the the Palazzo Settentrionale is interrupted by the monumental triumphal arch indicating the entrance of the 19th century shopping mall, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. The Square is also home to the Palazzo Meriodonale. On either side of this palace stand two modernist structures called propylaea, dating from 1937.

Top Secular and Religious Marvels

Anyone staying in a Milan centre hotel must go to see that most famous of art works – The Last Supper, by Leonardo DaVinci. It resides in the 14th century convent Santa Maria della Grazie. Another example of 14th century architecture worth viewing is the Sforza Castle, once home to some of the city’s most famous families. For a church with design elements dating from the 4th century and continuing to the 16th, visit the San Lorenzo Maggiore. The mosaics are wonderful examples of 4th and 5th century detail, while the Portinari Chapel dates from 1462-1468.

For later Medieval and Renaissance structures, consider touring the Raglione Palace (1223-1238) and Santa Maria presso San Satiro (1479-1483). For a touch of the Baroque, wander over to the Palazzo Brera (1651) dating back to an arcaded convent of the 14th century. For neo-Classical design, attend a production at La Scala (1778) or visit Belgioiso Palace (1773-1781).

Looking for a Milan centre hotel Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at a Milan centre hotel and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.