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This week’s travel photo is of the inside of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, Italy. A grand arcade built in the 1800’s, the galleria runs from the Piazza del Duomo to the Piazza della Scala. It’s a nice way to walk from the Milan Cathedral to the opera theater, past all of the expensive shops and cafes.
History of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is named after the first king of the Kingdom of Italy, Vittorio Emanuele II. Designed by architect Giuseppe Mengoni, the galleria’s construction began in 1865 and was completed in 1877. Sadly, Mengoni died just a few days before its official opening, never seeing his masterpiece fully realized.
An architectural marvel
The Galleria is a stunning example of 19th-century iron and glass architecture. Its cruciform layout features two intersecting arcades topped by an impressive glass dome, standing at 47 meters high. The elegant iron and glass structure allows natural light to flood the space, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere.
The floors of the Galleria are equally impressive, adorned with intricate mosaics depicting the coat of arms of various Italian cities, including Milan, Turin, Florence, and Rome. One of the most popular mosaics is the bull of Turin, located in the center of the Galleria. Tradition holds that spinning on the bull’s testicles brings good luck, and over the years, this spot has been worn down by countless visitors hoping to secure a bit of fortune. It doesn’t hurt to try, right?
Shopping and Dining
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is home to some of the world’s most prestigious brands, making it a haven for luxury shopping. Visitors can find flagship stores for high-end designers such as Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Versace, as well as elegant boutiques offering fine jewelry, watches, and accessories.
Beyond shopping, the Galleria offers a selection of historic cafés and restaurants that provide a taste of Milanese culinary culture. Caffè Biffi and Savini Milano, founded in 1867, are two of the oldest establishments, offering traditional Italian dishes and exceptional coffee. These venues provide a perfect setting to relax, people-watch, and soak in the elegant ambiance of the Galleria. We had espresso at Savini Milano just for the ambiance.
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