Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II - Luxury Shopping in Milan

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II symbolizes everything that makes Milan special: fashion, culture, art, history, and great food. The prestigious building is the oldest shopping mall in the city and a must-see for anyone who wants to experience Italian culture while enjoying some retail therapy.

This iconic landmark is one of the best places to shop in Milan, with a wide range of luxury brands in watches, jewelry, and high fashion. These include Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Prada.

Serving as a gateway from Piazza del Duomo to Piazza della Scala, the mall is also a popular gathering place for locals and tourists. This popularity earned it the nickname Il Salotto di Milano (Milan's living room or Milan's drawing room).

Aside from being an excellent place for lavish shopping, the mall's breathtaking architecture, central location, and the abundance of fine dining restaurants in and around it make it a top tourist destination.

History

Before 1861, Italy was divided into multiple states and isles. Key contributors to the unification process included King Vittorio Emanuele II, Camillo Benso, and Giuseppe Garibaldi. They are often referred to as the 'fathers of the fatherland'.

Following the unification, the mall was built in the city's center to improve Piazza del Duomo. It was named after Vittorio Emanuele II (Victor Emmanuel II), the first King of the unified kingdom.

It took 12 years to build, with architect Giuseppe Mengoni in charge. The construction was completed in 1877.

Architecture

The building's architecture has neoclassical and Renaissance revival elements. Each of the four entrances has an elaborate arch leading into hallways with glass vaulted arcades. The arcades are connected by a glass dome over an octagon in the middle.

The most striking feature of the building is its magnificent iron and glass roof. This allows natural light to flood the building, creating a bright, airy atmosphere. The size of the glass and iron roof made it unique when the building was finished.

Its large central dome is 47 meters above the floor and 36 meters in diameter. It is adorned with beautiful frescoes and statues, creating a beautiful interior with historical relevance and modern luxury.

The floors have beautiful mosaic patterns that showcase the coats of arms from Milan, Turin, and Florence. These intricate details add to the historical charm of the mall.

Interestingly, a superstition has formed around the image of a bull on the mosaic floor close to the mall's center. Spinning three times on the bull is supposed to bring you good luck. You're likely to find tourist at this spot waiting for their turn to do the 'bull spin'.

Nearby Attractions

In addition to being home to some of the world's best high-end fashion stores and restaurants, the main hall in the mall connects two of Milan's most popular attractions. The world-famous Duomo di Milano and Piazza della Scala.

Duomo di Milano

Duomo di Milano is a stunning example of Gothic architecture with intricate carvings and sculptures. Its exterior compound is awash with 19th-century statues and ornaments, which offer a fascinating insight into the details of Gothic architecture.

Piazza della Scala

Piazza della Scala is a square in the heart of Milan. It is best known for housing Teatro alla Scala, the city's famous opera house, which has hosted performances since 1812. The square also has a statue of one of Italy's most celebrated figures, Leonardo da Vinci.

Ferrari Store

Ferrari fans will be happy to know that the Ferrari store in Milan is right next to the mall's east entrance. Here, you can try a session in one of the F1 car simulators and enjoy a virtual drive around your favorite Grand Prix track.

Notable Fine Dining Restaurants

Camparino

Camparino opened its doors in 1915 and is known for serving classic Italian cocktails. The restaurant's 20th-century aura complements the mall's beauty. Its outdoor sitting area is next to the entrance facing the Piazza del Duomo. This allows guests to marvel at the Duomo's beauty while enjoying their meal.

Savani Milano

Like Camparino, Savani Milano is dedicated to serving authentic Italian cuisine. It started business in 1882 and still proudly aligns itself with the Belle Époque period.

The restaurant has been a preferred retreat for many of Italy's eminent figures and prominent foreigners visiting Milan. Notable people who have dined at Savini Milano include Henry Ford, Carla Fracci, and Frank Sinatra.

Biffi Café

Biffi Café opened its doors before the mall was constructed and moved into the building shortly after its completion. Originally operating as a bakery by Paolo Biffi, the king's confectioner, its pastries were popular among Milan's aristocrats.

Today, Biffi offers a fine dining menu with seafood and meat dishes to delight the discerning foody.

Hotels

Visitors looking to stay close to this shopping haven have good options. The mall's vicinity has some of Milan's most exotic hotels, like Galleria Vik Milano, the Bulgari Hotel, and the Mandarin Oriental, each providing a unique and well-refined experience.

Galleria Vik Milano is housed in the same building as the mall. It combines contemporary design with the city's historical Gothic charm, giving guests the perfect balance between comfort and historical sophistication.

The Bulgari Hotel, on the other hand, gives guests a completely different experience. Nestled in a botanical garden in a relatively quiet part of town, the hotel offers an escape from the bustling city.

Beyond being close to the mall, the Mandarin Oriental's luxurious interiors and impeccable service make a case for being the hotel to select when visiting Milan.

Frequently Asked Questions about the mall

Why is Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II famous?

Besides its incredible 19th-century architecture and historical significance, the building is famous for being Milan's oldest active shopping mall.

How to visit Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II?

The mall is in the center of Milan. It's easily accessible via private chauffeured ride, train, or taxi. The mall is at the meeting point of a couple of main streets and should be easy to get to from any part of the city.

What is the oldest shopping mall in the world?

Many consider Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II the world's oldest shopping mall. However, a case can be made for the Royal Exchange, depending on how you define a mall. Its provision for retail outlets back in the 16th century may qualify it as the oldest mall in the world.

What shops are in the building?

You'll find a variety of Luxury fashion, watches, perfumes, and cosmetics shops in the mall. Some of the most popular ones include Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Dolce & Gabbana, Rolex, Bulgari, Chanel, and Dior.