The Rite of the Nivola in Milan Cathedral: Faith, Tradition, and a Unique Photographic Experience
Milano, September 14–15, 2025 – Yesterday, at the very heart of the city, the Cathedral of Milan became the stage for a sacred and spectacular celebration: the Triduum of the Holy Nail, with the solemn Rite of the Nivola, held on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross.
A centuries-old tradition rich in symbolism, it offered moments of devotion, culture, and beauty — and for photography enthusiasts, it was a breathtaking opportunity to capture the interplay of faith, history, light, and architecture.
What is the Nivola and what happened yesterday?
The Nivola is a historical liturgical machine: a sort of decorated lift in the shape of a cloud (hence the name “nivola” in Milanese dialect), used to reach the tabernacle where the Holy Nail, a relic of Christ’s Passion, is kept. It is located some 40 meters above the main altar, inside the vault of the Cathedral’s apse.
During Vespers, the Archbishop ascended in the Nivola to solemnly retrieve the reliquary. The Nail was then displayed in a large gilded wooden cross for the faithful gathered below.
Inside the Duomo, the atmosphere was filled with awe and reverence: the anticipation of the crowd, the shifting light in the vast naves, and the solemn ascent of the Nivola created a unique moment of spiritual and visual intensity.
Cultural and spiritual value
This rite is more than a simple tradition; it embodies several layers of meaning:
Faith and devotion – The Holy Nail recalls the mystery of the Cross and Christ’s sacrifice, a symbol of reconciliation and reflection.
Historical continuity – The Rite dates back to the late 16th century, introduced by Saint Charles Borromeo, linking people, Church, and relic through a dramatic and participatory gesture.
Art and sacred scenography – The Nivola itself is a masterpiece: originally painted canvas, statues of angels, drapes, and golden decorations, all within the awe-inspiring Gothic setting of the Duomo.
A photographer’s dream – From the slow ascent of the Nivola to the golden glow of the reliquary, every detail — light, architecture, symbolism — offered unique opportunities for powerful images.
Unforgettable moments
The slow ascent of the Nivola, suspended between earth and sky.
The exposition of the Holy Nail, placed in the radiant cross, a moving highlight of the rite.
The chants and prayers, merging with the motion of the Nivola, creating a multisensory spiritual experience.
The light inside the Cathedral, shifting through stained glass and monumental spaces, transforming the ritual into an artistic tableau.
Personal reflection
Experiencing the Rite of the Nivola was both moving and inspiring. Beyond its religious significance, it felt like an invitation to pause and contemplate — a reminder that traditions can still speak powerfully in our fast-paced modern world.
For believers and non-believers alike, this ancient ritual remains a testimony of faith, history, and beauty — a bridge between the sacred and the universal, the spiritual and the artistic
