Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a historic shopping arcade located in Milan, Italy. It is one of the world's oldest and most prestigious shopping malls. The Galleria, named after the first king of the Kingdom of Italy, Victor Emmanuel II, was designed in 1861 and built by architect Giuseppe Mengoni between 1865 and 1877. The Galleria is a magnificent example of 19th-century iron and glass architecture, featuring a large glass dome and a stunning mosaic floor. The structure is shaped like a cross, with its two main arms intersecting under the central dome. The arcade is lined with elegant shops, restaurants, cafes, and luxury boutiques, housing some of the most renowned Italian and international brands. The Galleria's impressive facade opens onto Piazza del Duomo, providing a grand entrance directly opposite Milan's iconic cathedral. Its interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes and intricate ironwork, making it not just a shopping destination but also a cultural and arc...