Local Myths and Legends of Milan Italy & Video

Local Myths and Legends of Milan Italy

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Milan Italy is a city rich in history and culture, with a plethora of local myths and legends that have been passed down through generations. These stories provide a fascinating insight into the city’s past and continue to captivate locals and visitors alike. In this article, we will explore some of the most intriguing myths and legends of Milan Italy.

The Legend of the Duomo

  • The Devil’s Deal: According to legend, the construction of the magnificent Milan Cathedral, known as the Duomo, was only possible with the help of the devil. The story goes that the architect made a deal with the devil, promising him the first soul to enter the completed cathedral. However, the clever architect tricked the devil by sending a rooster into the cathedral first.
  • The Flying Saint: Another legend surrounding the Duomo tells the story of Saint Charles Borromeo, who miraculously flew over the city in the 16th century to bless it during a plague outbreak. This event is commemorated every year on September 4th with a procession known as the “Rito della Nivola.”
  • The Missing Nail: It is said that a single nail is missing from the construction of the Duomo. Legend has it that the nail holds the entire structure together, and until it is found, the cathedral will remain unfinished.

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The Legend of Sforza Castle

  • The Secret Tunnel: One of the most enduring legends of Sforza Castle revolves around a secret underground tunnel that connects the castle to the nearby Sant’Ambrogio Basilica. It is said that this tunnel was used by the ruling Sforza family to escape during times of danger.
  • The Ghost of Ludovico il Moro: Ludovico Sforza, also known as Ludovico il Moro, was a prominent figure in Milan’s history. Legend has it that his ghost still haunts the halls of Sforza Castle, seeking redemption for his controversial rule.
  • The Hidden Treasure: Many believe that a hidden treasure is buried somewhere within the walls of Sforza Castle. According to the legend, whoever finds it will be granted great wealth and prosperity.

The Legend of the Navigli Canals

  • The Curse of the Navigli: The Navigli Canals, once used for transportation and irrigation, are said to be cursed. It is believed that anyone who falls into the canals will be doomed to wander the city forever as a ghost.
  • The Lost City: A popular legend tells the story of an ancient city that lies hidden beneath the waters of the Navigli Canals. It is said that the city was submerged as punishment for its sinful ways.
  • The Lovers’ Bridge: The Ponte delle Sirenette, also known as the Bridge of the Mermaids, is said to grant eternal love to couples who kiss while passing under it. The legend claims that those who break the tradition will face relationship troubles.

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The Legend of Leonardo da Vinci

  • The Last Supper Mystery: Leonardo da Vinci’s famous mural, “The Last Supper,” holds a mysterious secret. Legend has it that da Vinci used a real person as a model for each disciple, except for the figure of Judas Iscariot, which is said to be a self-portrait of the artist himself.
  • The Lost Masterpiece: It is rumored that Leonardo da Vinci created another masterpiece, known as the “Lost Leonardo,” which remains hidden somewhere in Milan. Many treasure hunters and art enthusiasts have searched for this elusive painting throughout the years.
  • The Genius’s Curse: Some believe that Leonardo da Vinci cursed his own works to prevent others from surpassing his talent. It is said that anyone who tries to replicate his art will be doomed to fail.

The Legend of La Scala

  • The Ghost of Maria Callas: La Scala, one of the most famous opera houses in the world, is said to be haunted by the ghost of Maria Callas, a renowned opera singer. It is believed that her spirit can still be heard singing in the theater late at night.
  • The Mysterious Box: In the basement of La Scala, there is a locked box that is said to contain the secret to perfect singing. Many singers have tried to open the box, but none have succeeded.
  • The Phantom Composer: Legend has it that a mysterious composer, known as “Il Maestro,” occasionally visits La Scala to conduct his own compositions. His identity remains unknown, and his music is said to be hauntingly beautiful.

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The Legend of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

  • The Bull’s Testicles: In the center of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, there is a mosaic of a bull. It is believed that spinning on the bull’s testicles three times brings good luck.
  • The Unlucky Restaurant: Legend has it that a restaurant located in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is cursed. It is said that anyone who eats there will experience a series of misfortunes.
  • The Hidden Message: It is rumored that there is a hidden message within the intricate design of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Some believe that it holds the key to unlocking Milan’s greatest secret.

The Legend of Castello Sforzesco

  • The White Lady: Castello Sforzesco is said to be haunted by the ghost of Bianca Maria Visconti, also known as the White Lady. Legend has it that she appears to those who are about to face a great tragedy.
  • The Magic Sword: According to legend, there is a magic sword hidden within the walls of Castello Sforzesco. It is said that whoever finds it will be granted extraordinary powers.
  • The Secret Garden: It is believed that there is a secret garden hidden within the grounds of Castello Sforzesco. Legend has it that this enchanted garden holds the key to eternal youth.
  • The Cursed Painting: The Brera Art Gallery is home to a painting known as “The Cursed Portrait.” Legend has it that anyone who gazes into the eyes of the subject will be cursed with eternal bad luck.
  • The Vanishing Art: Some claim that certain paintings in the Brera Art Gallery have the ability to disappear and reappear at will. It is said that these paintings are portals to another dimension.
  • The Talking Statues: Statues within the Brera Art Gallery are rumored to come to life at night and engage in conversations with each other. However, only those with a pure heart can hear their whispers.

The Legend of Santa Maria delle Grazie

  • The Miracle of Bread: Santa Maria delle Grazie is famous for housing Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper.” Legend has it that during a famine, the painting miraculously turned bread into stone to feed the hungry.
  • The Lost Frescoes: It is believed that hidden frescoes by Leonardo da Vinci lie beneath the walls of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Some speculate that these lost masterpieces could rival the beauty of “The Last Supper.”
  • The Weeping Madonna: A statue of the Madonna within Santa Maria delle Grazie is said to weep tears of blood during times of great tragedy. Many consider it a sign of divine intervention.

The Legend of the Golden Madonna

  • The Golden Statue: The Golden Madonna, a statue located in the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio, is said to have healing powers. Legend has it that those who touch the statue will be cured of their ailments.
  • The Stolen Treasure: It is rumored that the Golden Madonna was once adorned with a crown made of pure gold and precious gems. However, the crown was stolen and has never been recovered.
  • The Guardian Angel: Many believe that the Golden Madonna is protected by a guardian angel who watches over the basilica. It is said that the angel appears to those in need and offers guidance.

Conclusion

Milan Italy is not only a city of fashion and design but also a city steeped in fascinating myths and legends. These stories add an air of mystery and enchantment to the already captivating atmosphere of the city. Whether it’s the tales surrounding the Duomo, the secrets hidden within Sforza Castle, or the haunting legends of La Scala, Milan offers a rich tapestry of folklore for those who seek it.

References:
– petitpalace.co.uk
– duomomilano.it
– sforzamilano.it
– navigli.net
– leonardodavinci.net
– teatroallascala.org
– galleriavittorioemanuele.it
– castello.it
– pinacotecabrera.org
– santamariadellegrazie.it
– santambrogiomilano.it