Restoration work has commenced on the celebrated mosaic portraying a bull, located on the floor of Milan’s historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. The necessity for restoration arises from the wear and tear caused by a long-standing tradition among tourists, which, according to local legend, brings good fortune.
The mosaic symbolizes Turin — the first capital of Italy. For years, visitors have followed a tradition of placing their heel on the depiction of the bull’s testicles and spinning three times clockwise, believed to bring happiness and ensure a return visit to Milan. Due to the high influx of tourists engaging in this practice, a notable depression has formed at this spot, and the pink tiles of the mosaic have experienced pronounced abrasion.
City authorities have indicated that restoration efforts began this week. To ensure safety, a temporary enclosure is placed around the mosaic during initial proceedings. Restorer Gianluca Galli is overseeing the on-site restoration, crafting new stone fragments to replace damaged sections. This work has garnered attention from tourists and pedestrians alike.
Galli commented that while the tradition, rooted in the 19th century, holds historical and symbolic significance, it also inflicts considerable damage on the artwork. According to the city council, the mosaic’s last restoration took place in 2017.
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of Milan’s iconic landmarks, attracting millions of visitors annually. The bull mosaic has long been among its main tourist attractions due to its cultural importance and the associated legend of good luck.