Did you know the Santuario di Santa Maria nascente in Milan wasn’t always called that? This magnificent cathedral actually began its life as a much humbler structure. Centuries ago this site housed two basilicas Santa Maria Maggiore and Santa Tecla. There was also a baptistery San Giovanni alle Fonti. These served as Milan’s religious heart. They were eventually deemed unfit for purpose.
The Santuario di Santa Maria nascente we see today started construction in 1386. Archbishop Antonio da Saluzzo spearheaded this ambitious project. The people of Milan envisioned a cathedral reflecting the Gothic style of the Po Valley. They planned to use local baked clay.
However Gian Galeazzo Visconti the city’s ruler had different ideas. He envisioned a grander statement. A cathedral showcasing the international Gothic style was to be built. This meant a change of material. Visconti generously provided marble from the Candoglia quarries near Lake Maggiore.
Imagine the logistical feat of transporting this marble. It journeyed by water to a pond near the construction site. On October 16 1387 a special organization was formed. The Venerable Workshop of the Duomo managed the project’s construction. Hundreds of workers from near and far toiled on the building.
The Santuario di Santa Maria nascente is a testament to collaborative effort. Lombards and foreigners united to create this masterpiece. Their combined skills and cultural contributions shaped the building. By 1395 the apse was completed. The first spire followed by 1404. In 1418 the high altar was consecrated.
The construction of the Santuario di Santa Maria nascente continued for centuries. The Sforza period saw the challenging creation of the tiburio’s vault. Famous names like Bramante and Leonardo da Vinci were involved. Giovanni Antonio Amadeo ultimately completed the dome.
Archbishop Carlo Borromeo’s arrival marked another significant phase. Liturgical changes dictated by the Council of Trent were adopted. Pellegrini redesigning the interior with a new presbytery tabernacle and crypt.
Cardinal Federico Borromeo continued the work. The Santuario di Santa Maria nascente’s long body complete work commenced on its facade. The design was initially Romanesque reflecting a late Renaissance style. However after building the portals and windows construction paused.
The central spire was erected between 1765 and 1769. The Madonnina statue was added shortly after. Napoleon Bonaparte ensured the facade’s completion in 1813. The original Gothic style was followed while respecting existing structures.
The Santuario di Santa Maria nascente’s roof and terraces were also finished. Many statues were added. The five bronze portals added in the 20th century. The Duomo’s story continues. The Venerable Workshop continues to work preserving this iconic Milanese landmark. This breathtaking structure stands as a testament to faith skill and the enduring spirit of a city.