Milan Restores Famous Bull Mosaic Worn Down by Tourist Ritual

Italy has begun restoring the famous bull mosaic inside Milan’s historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II after years of tourist traditions caused visible damage. Visitors have long followed the ritual of spinning three times on the bull’s testicles for good luck and a guaranteed return to Milan.

The popular custom has worn away the mosaic’s pink tiles, creating a small crater at the centre of the artwork. Restoration experts this week started carefully replacing damaged stone pieces by hand while curious tourists watched the process unfold inside the 19th-century arcade.

City officials said the Galleria remains a “living heritage” loved by millions of visitors, but one that requires regular care to preserve its historic beauty. The last restoration of the iconic bull mosaic was completed in 2017.

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