The Duomo, Milan

The Milanesi (if you haven't already discovered it yourself) are really a very nice bunch of people with exquisite taste in dressing and business sense. They are also very cultured, with a great sense of humor and many do speak excellent English - especially those that work in a
multi-national corporation (MNC) or financial institution. However, even nice people do have their limits....

For example, DO NOT ask why the Duomo was built so close to the Metro. To put it mildly, let's just say that by the time you + them are finished with the conversation, the DUOMO will be closed for the day. Kidding. But I'm sure you get my point. Yeah, it's a very sore point for the Milanesi when they discovered that the government decided to build the Metro almost at the doorstep of one of the world's most important monument, il DUOMO.

And now that I know the reason, I'm upset too!

When visiting the Cathedrals, or Duomos, in Italy remember that these are working churches. You may want to see the inside, but there are usually services going on. Respect these and try not to make too much noise oohing and awing over the beauty of the church. And also, the Italians take modesty very seriously when one is entering the Duomo. Ladies: do not wear sleeveless tops, you will be stopped at the door and made to wear a shawl over your shoulders or asked not to enter. Men: do not wear shorts into the Duomos, the nuns don't like this either.

Please be aware of the signs inside the duomo and other churches that say no flash photography. As much as you really may want to take a picture of the stained glass or the archeticture, please refrain from doing so. More than likely, you'll be able to get a postcard with a better picture than you could have gotten on your camera!