When I am in Milan I always go to Via degli Omenoni, the street of the big men, to visit the Casa degli Omenoni. The house was built in 1565. The sculptures that decorate the house, and give it its name, are by Antonio Abandio. Because they are so old, many of the faces are worn away.
The house was built for the sculptor Leone Leoni. It is a very impressive building. The sign over the door says 1722, perhaps it had a bit of a makeover then.
Casa degli Omenoni
not bad for his age
the lion has not fared as well
he looks quite stern
this one looks worried - or cold
he looks a bit timid
this one just looks sad
I think the door knocker is a more recent addition
A fellow blogger, The Daily Cure, who lives in Milan, is also delighted by this house. Click here and look for the post called “Here’s looking at you kid” to have a look at her impressions of the House of the Big Men. Stop by next time you are in Milan, you won’t be disappointed. It is right in the centre of town and not too difficult to find. I came upon it by accident the first time, but now make a point of visiting each time I go to Milan.