Honestly, it never crossed my mind that one day I would be standing inside the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan. I had heard about it for a long time, through stories, photographs, television, and videos. But there is a real difference between simply knowing about a place and actually being there. The moment you step inside, your gaze automatically drifts upward and you stop in your tracks: the glass dome, the light, the sheer space. It all feels monumental and breathtakingly beautiful.
Construction of the Galleria began in 1865
A brief history. Construction of the Galleria began as early as 1865, and it was named after the first King of unified Italy, Vittorio Emanuele II. This is not merely a shopping arcade but a true landmark of Milan. It connects the Cathedral Square with the Teatro alla Scala , and virtually everyone passes through it: tourists, locals, people on their way to work , and those who simply want to look around.
The visit took place just after the New Year holidays. Christmas trees, string lights, and festive illuminations were still in place, and the atmosphere was warm and full of life. Everything sparkles, everything is beautiful, and one walks slowly, looking around, soaking in that singular Milanese feeling. There are, of course, many people around, but that does not detract from the experience at all. On the contrary, it gives the place even more energy.
This Galleria is more than just shopping
What made a particularly strong impression: the Galleria is not only about shopping. Glancing upward, one discovers incredible beauty: intricate paintings, decorative ornaments, mosaics, and frescoes on the walls and beneath the dome. These are not conventional easel paintings, yet this artistic ornamentation feels like a museum suspended above the heads of visitors. In that moment, it becomes clear that this place is not just about luxury, but equally about art and architecture.
The Galleria is home to the most celebrated luxury fashion houses : Prada, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Versace, and many others. And what is particularly fascinating is that some of these brands have existed for more than 100 years. Prada was founded as far back as 1913, and Louis Vuitton dates to the mid-19th century. This is therefore not simply fashion; it is history, status, and tradition that have grown over decades .
A Prada bag for around 5,000 euros
The price tags were naturally part of the experience. A Prada bag spotted carried a price of around 5,000 euros. Yes, it was spotted. And, to be completely honest, briefly touched. The leather is perfect, the shape exquisite, the quality tangible. Yet standing there, the thought arose: would that bag be worth buying? The honest answer was: no. A ticket to La Scala , a live music experience, and memories that last a lifetime would be a far more appealing investment than a single very expensive bag, even if it carries the Prada or Louis Vuitton label. For many, this is something more for admiring than for owning.
These prices are likely tied not only to the brand but also to the location. The absolute city center, the heart of Milan, a historic building, and a constant flow of people. Rents here are certainly extremely high, and that is naturally reflected in the prices. Nearby, five-star hotels overlook the Galleria, alongside restaurants and cafés where one can simply sit, enjoy a coffee, and watch the beautiful city life unfold.