ELDERLY SAINT

Spire along the north walkway-G80

One of the many unnamed saints on the Spires of the Duomo who are not clearly identified. This bearded saint, dressed in a toga like an ancient consul, looks towards the west, where the Cathedral square is. Perhaps he is one of the senators of Mediolanum, as Milan was called when it was the capital of the Western Roman Empire; perhaps he is trying to reach the forum, to discuss laws, talk about provisions, govern morals. The Cathedral also welcomes this past, regardless of whether or not it was saintly. He is honoured because he is part of the city, part of the foundations supporting its modern constructions. He places his left hand on his chest, as if waiting to speak. He will certainly have many things to say.