Chiesa di San Gottardo in Corte (Church of St. Gotthard of Hildesheim), Milan

The Church of Saint Gotthard is a hidden gem of undeniable beauty, almost entirely concealed by Milan's Royal Palace ("Palazzo Reale"). Its external appearance was completely transformed during the Neoclassicist era when the entrance was moved to the south side.

The church's construction may have started as a small temple by the Torriani, but was completed by Azzone Visconti, with the help of architect Pecorari and painter Giotto. Visitors entering the church can admire the nave, which is preceded by a vestibule featuring an impressive fresco of the Giotto school.

One should also take a moment to appreciate the slender, octagonal bell tower, which offers a striking contrast between its red brick and marble materials. Home to the first public clock in Milan and likely in Italy as well, it has retained its original structure since its construction in 1330. The clock itself was one of the earliest to strike the hours and was immensely popular. In 1335, Galvano Fiamma described it as "a wonderful clock with a huge clapper that strikes a bell 24 times a day, making it of great use to people of every social class". The clock and its automatic mechanism were so impressive that the surrounding area became known as the "Street of the Hours" ("Contrada delle Ore").

At the top of the bell tower, the Archangel Saint Michael overlooks the area and appears to beckon the many tourists who visit Piazza del Duomo to admire his splendor as well.