Around 1415 the Duomo’s structure extended from the apse to the transept and up to the first two bays of the nave. The outstanding capitals are joined by the first stained glass windows of the northern sacristy. These, half way through the century, are followed by the Lombard school stain glass windows of the three large apsidal windows and other seven windows on the flanks. Tiburio’s cupola was built between 1490 and 1500, by G.A. Amadeo and G.G. Dolcebuono, followed by the north-eastern spire.

With Carlo Borromeo’s episcopacy (1565-84) and the regulations issued by Trento’s Council, the Duomo modifies its liturgical asset: therefore the new presbytery, the wooden and senatorial choir, the large organs with painted panels (end 16th century) the side altars and the marble boundary of the tornacoro, completed with the high relief with the Madonna’s life between 1620-40, are created. Francesco Croce in 1765 starts the main spire, finished in 1774 with the application of the golden copper "Madonnina".

The façade is started under cardinal Federigo, with the guidance of architect Richini modifying a Pellegrino Pellegrini project. Also, during the 12th and 13th century, the great altars of the Madonna dell’Albero and S. Giovanni Bono as well as the façade take on the current features.

In 1906-08 the first bronze door is laid out, L. Pogliaghi’s central one. The façade is completed in 1814 following Amati-Zanoja’s directives. The last spires are raised as well as the decorations of the rampant arches, the last few statues set in and new stained glass windows made.

From this moment on the age of maintenance and improving restoration starts. The last, chronologically, was the new Gala lighting system of Milan’s Duomo. The project, led by AEM (Azienda Elettrica Milanese) was redacted by LED Studio Associato di C.Ferrara e P.Palladino and delivered to the Milanese Curia this past 30th March.

July.2002

Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano (In Italian)
Milan Diocese (In Italian)
AEM’s lighting project