Dragons Of The Milan Cathedral And The Legend Of The Woolly Sow Of The Milan Foundation
The city of Milan is perhaps best known for its relatively modern monuments such as the Duomo or La Scala theater. This is why I believe that the story I want to tell you now is unknown to many.
If you are normal people, not historians, guides, and the like, you have many times heard that Milan is the capital of fashion and industry. If you thought about visiting the city, the major monuments were probably on your list. But before you go there next time, read a little about the mysterious places of Milan. I'll tell you about two of them today.
The first of the mysteries you will find here, on the main door of the Cathedral of Milan. But before you look at it, I’ll tell you curious facts: The facade of the cathedral is not ancient. On the plaque (photo) that you will then find in the Cathedral is the date and name of the architect. Statues, spiers, and other ornaments were added over many years.
Let's go back to the mystery of the door. Have you noticed that there are also dragons among the animals that decorate it? I found three of them.
It is said that in 1100 there was so much rain in the area that the rivers flooded the entire plain, which became a large lake. It was not deep, but very broad. And in this lake lived a dragon. His name was Tarantasio. He had stinky breath, from which fire also came out. The last time Tarantasio showed up was in 1299. Then, in the early 1300s people found a large bone, and realized that the dragon had died.
The goddess on the plaque is Belisama, “Shining Summer”, Mother of Milan, who suggested to the Celtic man Belloveso the place to found his city. Asking the oracles, the Celts received the answer that they must build where they will find a half-wool sow.
In the cathedral, you can visit archaeological excavations of the basilicas and baptistery that were on this site before the construction of the current building. It is said that the spring and the sacred grove of Belisama were located in this part, too.
Right in front of the cathedral, on the other side of the square, you can see the New Broletto, a municipal building of the Middle Ages. During excavations, the palace's builders found a bas-relief with the sow (1233). You can admire it even today (photo).
If you like medieval burgs, Piazza Mercanti behind Broletto is the medieval center of Milan. We are in 1200 here. The buildings around this square are among the most historically interesting in the city.
Milan is truly an endless source of ancient secrets, but the ones I have told you today are perhaps among the most curious of those I have heard.