Milan's Duomo

You must all be wondering where I have gone the last week. I know you haven't heard from me in a while and that's because we went out of town, sightseeing with my parents in law in Italy and France. No, it's not an extravagant vacation. We packed our meals, went from one city to another in our car, and booked promo hotel rooms.

The morning sun slowly peeking at us as we drove through Switzerland down to Italy.

So where did we go first? To the fashion and business capital of Italy of course! We were already on the road at 3:30AM and arrived at our hotel in Milan in the afternoon. After a little rest, we decided to go to the city center by public transport (metro) because most cities in Italy have a crazy traffic regulation. Surprisingly, we found Milan to be packed with Filipinos! Yes, anywhere we turn, we can see Filipinos. We have been to Venice and then to Rome but nothing compares to the number of Filipinos that we found in Milan.

Milan's Duomo in all its splendor and beauty.

When we got off the subway, the first thing that met our eyes was the beautiful view of the giant Duomo, Milan's hallmark and one of the largest Gothic churches in the world. What makes this church extraordinary is that it is crowned with 135 spires and innumerable statues and gargoyles.

The other side of the Duomo. Can you see the gargoyles?

We heard mass at 5:30PM and although it was said in Italian, it was very solemn. Only a few people attended the service though as most of the crowd were just there as tourists. I think in many grand Catholic churches in Europe, it is sad to note that most people come only to take photos and see the beauty of the mosaics and stained glass windows and the architecture and never really to go there to pray. I am not judging them though because these churches are indeed a sight to behold.

And of course, a souvenir family photo right in front of the Duomo.

So that was Day 1 of our trip. More stories to come in the coming days.

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