Highlights of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele 2
This galleria (arcade) is named after Vittorio Emanuele 2, the hero who unified Italy. It is also said to be “Italy’s oldest shopping mall.”
It was designed and built in the latter half of the 19th century. Beneath its iron-and-glass roof and large central dome, and surrounded by floor mosaics, you can stroll along arcades lined with shops and cafés.
It is said to have inspired the World Bazaar at Tokyo Disneyland, but its imposing character and scale make it feel like something entirely different.
A kiss in the center of the galleria is said to bring good luck.
It is said that spinning around once with your heel on the bull's genitals will bring you good luck or ensure your return to Milan. It is a custom similar to tossing a coin backward into the Trevi Fountain.
Incidentally, the bull represents the symbol of Turin. People from Turin may not find this custom particularly pleasant.
Essential Information About Galleria Vittorio Emanuele 2
- 🔗 Official website
- The Milan tourism authority’s website provides information about the architectural highlights and the shops inside the gallery.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II | YesMilano.it"A Milano, passammo la maggior parte del tempo all'interno della grande e magnifica Loggia, o Galleria, o comunque ...www.yesmilano.it
- 📍 Address
- Piazza del Duomo, 20121 Milano
- 💶 Admission
- This is a public covered passage, so walking through it and viewing its architecture are free. The shops, restaurants, and other facilities inside have their own opening hours and prices.
- ⏱️ Suggested visit length
- Allow about 30 minutes to 1 hour to walk around and admire the glass roof and mosaics. ⚠️ The length of your visit may vary depending on crowds and how long you spend in the shops.
Getting to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele 2
The Galleria connects Piazza del Duomo (Duomo Square) with Piazza della Scala (La Scala Square). Starting from Piazza del Duomo in front of the cathedral, walk to the entrance of the covered arcade. Passing through the Galleria brings you out on the Piazza della Scala side, which also serves as a pedestrian entrance. Once you arrive, use these two squares as landmarks to understand the layout.