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A view of the soaring spires of Milan Cathedral. Courtesy of Milan Tourist Office
When:
13 Sep 2009 (annual)
Where:
Duomo
During the Celebration of the Holy Nail, Milan's archbishop ascends towards the ceiling of the Duomo in a rickety mechanical basket to bring down the relic to the crowd. It supposedly comes from the cross on which Christ died.
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The nail lost its original appearance when the Roman Emperor Constantine melted it into riding apparel for his horse and its history is also unclear. It may have come with Saint Ambrosius, around the 4th century AD, or a few centuries later with the Crusaders. Either way this bizarre event is a must-see if you find yourself in Milan in September.
Event details can change.
Please check with the organisers that the event is happening before making travel arrangements.
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