Torino’s Bull at the Gallery (To Be Squeezed) in Milan and Other Local Customs

Traveling to Milan offers tourists plenty of opportunity for sightseeing, shopping and cultural activities. But besides all of that, there is a special tradition unique to Milan that visitors won't want to miss.

There is a famous bull mosaic in Milan that is a worthwhile stop for anyone considering a visit to the city. It is integrated into the coat of arms of Torino, which can be found in Galleria VittorioEmmanuele. Halfway down that street are four different mosaics on the floor that are representations of four cities in Italy. The bull mosaic, which is the symbol for Torino, can be found on the left side, if standing looking away from the cathedral. The she-wolf and Romulus and Remus mosaic stands for Rome, the lily is for Florence and there is a red cross for Milan.

There is a lot of luck connected with the bull of Torino. While in some cities, such as Rome, there are fountains that tourists throw money in for good luck. In Milan, good fortune all revolves around the testicles of a bull.

The unusual thing about the bull mosaic is that there is a hole where the bull’s genitals should be. Tradition has it that wishes can come true for people who put a heel over the hole. Then on one foot, they must quickly turn themselves around until three complete circles have been made. There is a controversy here, as some people say it only takes one 360-degree turn for wishes to come true. Local residents claim that the person’s sex life will increase after squeezing the bull.

Even though this is a curious custom (and even slightly embarrassing) there is never a lack of visitors willing to do it. There can be long lines of people lining up near the mosaic waiting to take their turn. Besides those on the bull taking a spin, there are usually bystanders who are watching or photographing their friends who are turning. However, it could be that this tradition is only kept by tourists, because not a of lot of locals can be found queuing up.

Editor's Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Torino’s Bull at the Gallery (to be Squeezed) in Milan and Other Local Customs.