Milan, Italy Walking Tour & Touring the Duomo

Good morning from Milan!  This is our second day in the city.  We were quite tired yesterday so we only explored a little.  Today we are well-rested and ready for a full day of exploration!

Sunrise over Milan 

 Complimentary (for Hilton Honors Gold members) breakfast at the hotel

Arriving back at Piazza Duomo

Milan Duomo

OD Store, a really neat candy store behind the Duomo

Today we are taking a free Milan walking tour.  We used Milan Free Tour, which was in English.

Borsa Italiana, Italy's only stock exchange.  The main reason for visiting was to see the famous statue outside.  It was created by a famous Italian artist named Maurizio Cattelan. The statue is titled L.O.V.E but is better known as The Middle Finger! The statue was only supposed to stay for a few weeks but ended up becoming a permanent fixture, although many are still unhappy about this decision.  If you look closely, you will notice that the fingers are not bent but are instead cut off.  It supposedly refers to the economic crisis that hit Europe pretty hard in 2008.

Ancient Ruins

Sforza Castle Grounds

Everywhere we went in Italy we encountered men trying to sell a variety of items to tourists.  The items included selfie sticks, friendship bracelets, "Rolex" watches, umbrellas, sunglasses, and belts.  These men were relentless.  It was only at Sforza Castle that I saw anyone purchase an item.

We ate lunch at Galleria, which is located in the eatery plaza outside of the Duomo.  The food was delicious, and the customer service was outstanding, probably the best I have ever encountered anywhere.  I was very impressed.

Dessert after the meal

Street Performer

Touring the Duomo and going up on the roof

Inside the Duomo

This statue inside is a replica of the one on top of the church.

Ruins underneath the Duomo

See the red light below?  There a nail is kept.  Not just any nail.  Supposedly, it is a nail from the cross Jesus was crucified on.  There, a fragment from the cross is also kept.  It is kept there at all times, except on the 13th of every September.  They send a person up to the red light to bring the glass shrine down.  The bishop places it in the altar for a ceremony.

Italy's churches and landmarks seem to be very well-protected.

Grocery Shopping

Viennetta Ice Cream, our favorite European treat!

Chunky New York Cheesecake Kit Kat?  No thanks!

Today was a wonderful day in Milan!  I loved exploring the Duomo.  Going onto the roof was such a neat experience.  I highly recommend it when visiting!