The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the world’s oldest shopping malls and a must-see for any visitor to Milan.
Located in the heart of the city, the galleria is home to a wide variety of high-end stores, restaurants, and cafes. The galleria’s stunning glass and iron architecture is a sight to behold, and it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, named after the first king of the unified Italy, was designed by architect Giuseppe Mengoni in 1861. Construction of the galleria began in 1865 and was completed in 1877, making it one of the oldest shopping malls in the world.
The galleria is situated between two of Milan’s most iconic landmarks, the Piazza del Duomo and the Piazza della Scala, and is connected to both squares by elegant arched entrances.
With its intricate mosaics showing the coats of arms of the four most important Italian cities—Milan, Rome, Florence, and Turin—the galleria’s central dome is in and of itself a work of art.
Aside from shopping, visitors can also appreciate the galleria’s exquisite architecture and intricate details. From the mosaic floors to the frescoed ceilings, the galleria is an excellent example of the neo-classical style that was popular in the 19th century.
Particularly striking is the central octagon, which holds a magnificent statue of Vittorio Emanuele II.
Another highlight of the galleria is the tradition of the bull mosaic located on the floor. Legend has it that spinning around on the bull’s genitals, as depicted in the mosaic, three times with your right heel brings good luck.
As a result, the area around the bull has become a popular spot for tourists to take photos and try their luck.
The galleria’s elegant cafes and restaurants offer a chance to relax and enjoy a drink or meal in a stunning setting. One of the most famous is the historic Camparino, which opened in 1915 and has been a gathering place for Milanese intellectuals and artists ever since.
Along with stores and restaurants, the galleria is also home to a number of cultural institutions, such as the Museo del 900 and the Galleria Carla Sozzani. Museo del 900 is a gallery showcasing contemporary photography and design. While the Galleria Carla Sozzani is a museum devoted to Italian art from the 20th century.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping center is a beautiful example of 19th-century Italian architecture and a standout architectural landmark of Milan.
