Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the world’s oldest shopping malls and a major landmark in Milan, Italy. Located in the heart of the city, the grand and beautiful Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is an iconic part of Milanese culture. Built in the late 19th century, the mall was designed by Giuseppe Mengoni, who wanted to create a modern and impressive public space for the people of Milan. The mall is named after Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of Italy.
Architecture and Design
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is an impressive structure, featuring an ornate iron and glass dome, arched windows and intricate mosaics. The mall is made up of two glass-covered arcades that intersect at a central octagonal hall, known as the “Light of Milan”. The octagonal hall is adorned with mosaics depicting the coats of arms of the cities of Milan, Turin, Florence, and Naples. The mall also features an ornate mosaic floor, which is made up of thousands of pieces of marble and is said to be the world’s largest.
Stores and Restaurants
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is home to a wide range of stores and restaurants. It is home to some of the world’s most prestigious brands, such as Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Armani. The mall also features a number of eateries, ranging from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. In addition, there are several souvenir shops and boutiques, as well as a wide range of services, such as banks, post offices, and hairdressers.
Events and Attractions
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is also home to a number of events and attractions. Throughout the year, the mall hosts art exhibitions, fashion shows, and concerts. In addition, the mall is home to the Museo del Risorgimento, which showcases the history of the Italian Risorgimento, as well as the Museo della Scienza e della Tecnologia, which is a science and technology museum. The mall also has a number of religious shrines, including the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, the Shrine of Our Lady of Loreto, and the Shrine of Saint Ambrose.
Famous Traditions
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is also home to some famous traditions. One of the most famous is the tradition of “spinning the bull”. This tradition involves spinning around the base of the statue of the bull located in the center of the mall. It is believed that spinning around the bull will bring good luck.
Conclusion
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a beautiful and iconic landmark in Milan, Italy. With its ornate design, impressive stores, and famous traditions, it is no wonder that the mall is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Whether you are looking for a luxurious shopping experience, a delicious meal, or just a piece of history, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is the perfect place to visit.