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Restoration work triggers social media buzz
Milan's recent refurbishment of a historic bull mosaic in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II has left Italians amused-and puzzled-after some claimed the animal's testicles had vanished.
The tradition behind the bull
The 19th-century mosaic, depicting a prancing bull within Turin's coat of arms, has long been a tourist magnet. Visitors spin their heels three times on the bull's testicles, a ritual believed to bring good luck and ensure a return trip to Milan. Over time, the practice wore a small crater into the mosaic.
Council defends restoration efforts
Local councillor Marco Granelli announced over the weekend that the mosaic had been "completely restored," sparking a wave of online reactions. Critics joked the bull appeared "castrated," with one user quipping, "What happened to the testicles?"
Milan's city council clarified the project was still ongoing, noting the mosaic remained partially covered to allow new tiles to set. Officials insisted the testicles had not been removed, explaining the pink marble used in the repair closely matched the original material.
Restorer addresses the controversy
Artisan Gianluca Galli, who hand-cut replacement stones while kneeling before the mosaic, told Corriere della Sera the work was unfinished. He added that no objections had been raised under the council's supervision.
The council also noted a darker marble was used in a 2017 restoration, which may have contributed to the visual discrepancy.
What's next
The mosaic will remain cordoned off until the restoration is fully completed, with officials promising the final result will restore the bull's original charm-testicles included.
