“Good luck comes to those,” so goes a saying linked to a Milanese tradition and might as well apply to our next stop the Cassinello Freganeschi. Milan is a city of secrets. It offers a surprising journey through time. Many facts about Milan are well known. However, others are obscure even to the locals.
Now I will tell you more about Cassinello Freganeschi. One of the most curious superstitions in Milan is linked to a mosaic. It is located in the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. According to local tradition, you must turn your right heel three times on the genitals of the bull. The bull is depicted in the mosaic and this act brings good luck. This ritual has become almost obligatory for tourists and locals.
Despite its playful origin, the ritual has taken on a broader meaning. It has become an auspicious symbol for all those visiting Milan. There is a small sinkhole at the mosaic. It is a sign that the tradition is still alive.
Milan was founded by the Celts in 600 BC. The city’s original name was Mediolanon. It meant “in the middle of the plain”. Milan is the second largest city in Italy. Its cathedral is the third largest Catholic church in Europe. Its construction took over 500 years. There are more than 3400 statues on the Duomo.
Milan has a strong Filipino community. More than 20% of its population is foreign. Milan was once Spanish and Austrian. It was also briefly French. Milan was the capital of the Western Roman Empire. Today, Milan is one of the fashion capitals of the world. It is the second most visited city in Italy after Rome.
Milan has canals just like Venice. The Milan canals are known as the Navigli. They are a system of five canals. These canals connect the different neighborhoods. The tram network in Milan is one of the most developed. Milan has two of the strongest teams in the Italian football league. The San Siro Stadium is the largest stadium in Italy.
The Teatro alla Scala is one of the leading opera houses in the world. Napoleon was crowned King of Italy in the Milan Cathedral in 1805. You can even adopt a gargoyle from the Milan Cathedral. “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci is in Milan. It is located in the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
Milan is a city with many layers. It combines ancient history with modern innovation. From its superstitions to its stunning architecture, Milan captivates all. As you explore Cassinello Freganeschi, remember the stories that resonate through its streets. Milan continues to surprise and inspire.