As the city of Milan gears up for the 2026 Winter Olympics, one of the unintended attractions has become the flocks of pigeons that have made their home in the bustling Piazza del Duomo. While many visitors are charmed by these birds, describing them as “pretty friendly,” the local sentiment is decidedly mixed.
Tourists often find themselves captivated by the prospect of photographing the pigeons, spending considerable time feeding them and seeking that perfect social media shot. This interaction has made the Piazza a lively spot, bustling with both people and birds.
However, the presence of these pigeons has prompted frustration among residents. One local expressed a wish for “a life without pigeons,” reflecting a common view among those who consider them a nuisance. A dentist from Milan further added a humorous yet pointed message for incoming tourists, noting, “I’m sorry for people who love the Olympics because we have pigeons, sorry for pigeons.”
While feeding pigeons is prohibited in certain areas of Milan, the cathedral remains a hotspot for tourists to engage with the birds without fear of penalties, a situation that likely adds to the ongoing debate about the coexistence of locals and their feathered counterparts.
As Milan readies itself for an influx of visitors over the next few years, the city’s deep-rooted relationship with its pigeons highlights a fascinating dichotomy between tourist attraction and everyday living—raising questions about urban wildlife management in a city steeped in history and culture. With the Olympics on the horizon, it will be interesting to see how the city balances this avian presence with the needs and comfort of its residents.