Look up! Above us, standing tall on the highest spire of the Duomo, is La Madonnina. This gilded statue of the Virgin Mary, holding a golden spear, is more than just a beautiful sight. It is a beloved symbol of Milan, a beacon of hope for many.
La Madonnina sits on top of the Great Spire, one of the defining features of the Milan Cathedral. The spire was erected in 1762, and the Madonnina statue was added in 1774. The story goes that the original plans for the Duomo didn’t even include a statue on top. It was only later that the Archbishop of Milan commissioned Giuseppe Perego, the sculptor, to create the Madonnina.
Perego presented three different designs for the statue, each with its own unique interpretation of the Virgin Mary. The final design depicts the Virgin Mary being carried to heaven by angels, a beautiful image of ascension, which is now considered the heart and soul of Milan.
The Madonnina isn’t just a religious symbol; it’s also a symbol of the city’s spirit and resilience. During World War II, to protect the statue from bombs, it was covered with a grey-green cloth. It wasn’t revealed until victory was declared in 1945.
La Madonnina is a symbol of hope and strength – a constant presence in the heart of Milan. It reminds us of the city’s rich history and its enduring spirit.