Milan's churches are beautiful and fascinating

If you want a sophisticated holiday that includes fine wine, good food, chic shops and amazing historic attractions, look no further than Milan. The Italian city boasts a wealth of sites, although its churches should be at the top of your agenda.

This is because they are equally as fascinating as they are breathtaking. Once you have picked the best deal for car hire when staying in Milan, the next thing you should do is decide which churches you want to visit.

Our guide should give you an idea of which ones you need to make time to see.

Duomo di Milano

Not so much a church as a cathedral, Duomo di Milano is open every day and is definitely a majestic sight. The facade is simply stunning, especially with the gilded statue of the Madonnina rising up from its 108 m post. Construction of the cathedral started in 1386 and the building is still added to even now. Step inside, and it is just as amazing. There are hundreds of statues and half busts, not to mention striking stained glass.

The cathedral is the first in the world to light its windows from the interior, providing a lovely glow and show of images to those walking by at night.

Basilica di Santa Maria Della Passione

If you are a fan of Renaissance buildings, Milan's Basilica di Santa Maria Della Passione should be at the top of your sightseeing list. It is almost as big as the city's cathedral and is right in the city centre, so you can't miss it. With a Baroque facade, the church boasts a fine collection of paintings, including Daniele Crespi's The Fast of San Carlo and Gaudenzio Ferrari's The Last Supper.

The dome is 23 m wide and almost 50 m high and was constructed in 1530 by Cristoforo Lombardo. While the church was originally built in the style of a Greek cross, the design was turned into a Latin cross in 1573, with an additional three front spans.

Basilica of Sant'Eustorgio

Founded in the 4th century, the Basilica of Sant'Eustorgio is one of Milan's oldest churches. It was given a lift in the 19th century when it was rebuilt and the structure is an interesting one. Many of its chapels have been added over the years and the interior has three naves. Keep an eye out for the Portinari Chapel. Dating back to 1462, it is an excellent example of the Florentine art movement in Milan.

While they no longer rest there, the relics of the Three Kings used to be housed within this church.

Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio

Pilgrims flock to the Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio, which is dedicated to the former bishop of Milan Ambrose, who was appointed in the 4th century. It represents the Lombard Romanesque architecture of the time, but underwent something of a makeover in the Middle Ages.

You will no doubt be struck by the portico before the entrance of the church. Head inside and take a walk around and you will notice the chapels are elaborately decorated, not only on the walks but also on the vaults. The oldest bell tower is from the 9th century and is also known as the monks' tower. There is another one, called the priests' tower, which is from 1128.
 

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