Four meters tall she stands. The Madonnina del Molgora a gilded wonder atop Milan’s Duomo. This isn’t just any statue. It’s the heart of Milan. For centuries the Madonnina has watched over the city. She’s seen wars and celebrations. She’s seen the city grow and change.
Giuseppe Perego sculpted her. He presented three designs. One was chosen. It’s said that the head is carved from a single walnut tree. The Madonnina’s copper plates were beaten into shape by the goldsmith Giuseppe Bini. He used 156 booklets each made of two sheets of pure gold.
The Madonnina wasn’t immediately placed on the Duomo. Fears of lightning and wind delayed her placement. She finally found her home in 1774. During World War II the Madonnina was covered to protect her from bombs. Five years later she was revealed. The sight must have been magnificent.
Over time the Madonnina has been restored. The original iron core was replaced with stainless steel. This was done to protect her. Her copper plates were regilded. Her last regilding was in 2012. It was during the same restoration of the Great Spire.
The Madonnina isn’t just a religious symbol. She is a civic symbol for Milan. During the Five Days of Milan in 1848 revolutionaries raised the Italian flag on her halberd. The sight inspired Milanese fighters. It showed them that their cause was just. To this day the Italian flag is raised for various holidays and national days.
The Madonnina represents Milan. She’s a symbol of faith and resilience. Her presence is an undeniable beacon of hope. She continues to watch over the city and its people. She inspires awe and devotion. She is the enduring soul of Milan.