September 21, 1796
In a note from the Annals of the Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano, that year there was a curious reference to "slight damage that occurred to this site due to falling glass from the windows of the Duomo, caused by the firing of the cannons on the day of celebrations for entry into fifth year of the French Republic".
In fact, the festivities for the inauguration of the French Republic, which took place in what was known at the time as Piazza del Palazzo Nazionale (National Palace Square), had disastrous consequences for the Cathedral's stained-glass windows.
Stained-glass window of the Apocalypse (1416-1482; 1834-1838) by Stefano da Pandino, Maffiolo da Cremona, Franceschino Zavattari, Giovanni Recalcado, Cristoforo de’ Mottis, Michelino da Besozzo (?), Niccolò da Varallo, Stefano da Marliano, Battista da Legnano, Stefano Bergognone dal Furno, Giorgio d’Anversa, Giovanni Battista BertiniVeneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano
The shock wave from the cannons placed across the square, facing the southern side of the Duomo, shattered several antique panels, causing immeasurable damage to the Cathedral's stained-glass heritage.
Stories from the New Testament, view of Milan Duomo's stained-glass window 19 (1838/1865) by Bertini workshopVeneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano
In a letter, the Fabbrica's administration pointed out to the Municipality the need for compensation for the repairs and the damage caused.
Stories from the New Testament (1838 - second half of the 19th century) by Bertini workshopVeneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano
The Municipality's response was negative, however, they did not consider themselves responsible for the incident.
The huge damage caused to the Cathedral's stained-glass windows set an unfortunate precedent which those at the Fabbrica referred back to in subsequent notices to the Municipality.
UntitiledVeneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano
Visconti sunVeneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano
Milan Duomo has always watched over and served as the backdrop for various historical events in the city, and bears the mark of time and our collective memory.
Read more on Milan Cathedral Remixed.
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