A Special Adoption
When we hear the word “adopt,” we usually think about pets. But in Milan, Italy, people are adopting 600-year-old marble statues.
The city’s famous cathedral, the Duomo, runs a program called “Adopt a Statue.” In this program, companies and individuals help [[restore::repair and bring back to good condition]] old sculptures and then display them in public spaces. Instead of staying hidden in storage, these statues are given a second life where everyone can see them.
About the Duomo
The Duomo di Milano is one of the largest cathedrals in the world. Work on it began in 1386, and it took nearly 600 years to finish. The cathedral is covered with around 3,400 statues made from pinkish-white Candoglia marble.
Over time, rain, wind, [[pollution::harmful substances in the environment]], and freezing weather damaged many of these sculptures. To keep people safe and protect the artwork, experts removed some of the [[fragile::easily broken or damaged]] original statues and replaced them with copies. The original statues were then kept safely in a marble workshop area called the Cantiere Marmisti, where they were no longer seen by the public.
How the Program Works
The program is managed by the Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo, the group that takes care of the cathedral. Donors pay for the restoration of selected original statues, and a typical adoption costs about 25,000 euros per year. After restoration, the statue can be displayed for up to three years.
However, there are strict rules. Cultural heritage [[authorities::official groups with power to make decisions]] must approve each loan, and the statue must be placed in a secure and accessible space, often inside a glass case with proper lighting and temperature. Experts regularly check the statue to make sure it stays safe.
This Year’s Highlight
Recently, a 15th-century statue called “Bearded Saint with Book” was unveiled at the headquarters of FNM Group in Piazzale Cadorna, a busy railway and metro hub in Milan. Thousands of commuters now see the restored statue every day.
Leaders say this project shows how culture and business can work together.
Why It Is Important
The “Adopt a Statue” program is not only about raising money. It helps protect history while allowing people to enjoy it in their daily lives.
By bringing statues back into public view, Milan shows that art from the past can still be part of the present.
Quick Revision
The Duomo di Milano took nearly 600 years to complete.
The Adopt a Statue program helps restore and display old sculptures.
Donors pay to restore statues and display them safely for up to three years.
