Milan: Where History and Modernity Converge
Milan, nestled in Lombardy, traces its roots back to the Insubri, who founded it in the early 6th century BCE. Captured by the Romans in 222 BCE and named Mediolanum, it progressively gained significance, eventually becoming an imperial residence. This era saw the promulgation of the famous Edict of Toleration. Actively involved in the struggle against the Emperor during the communal age, Milan evolved from a 'Signoria' to a Duchy, remaining at the heart of political and cultural life during the Italian Renaissance.
In the early 16th century, it lost its independence to Spain, later passing under Austrian rule for almost two centuries. Under enlightened Habsburg policies, Milan emerged as a focal point for Italian Enlightenment.
As the capital of the Napoleonic Kingdom of Italy, Milan played a vital role in the Risorgimento until its incorporation into the Kingdom of Italy. A leading economic and financial hub, it spearheaded industrial development, forming the "Industrial Triangle" with Turin and Genoa. This was particularly evident during the economic boom when industrial and urban development extended to neighboring cities, creating the vast Milan metropolitan area. Culturally, Milan is Italy's primary publishing center and a global music hub, renowned for the lyrical season at La Scala Theater and its extensive operatic tradition. Moreover, Milan stands as one of Europe's key trade fair and industrial design hubs, proudly holding its place among the four global fashion capitals.
Milan is an Italian city with a population of 1,368,590, serving as the capital of both the metropolitan city and the Lombardy region, and anchoring one of Europe's most populous metropolitan areas.
- Area: 181.8 km²
- Patron Saint: Saint Ambrose
- Elevation: 121 m
Touristic, Artistic, and Historical Highlights:
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The Last Supper (Cenacolo Vinciano): Housed in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, The Last Supper, is a must-see for art enthusiasts.
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Duomo di Milano: The Milan Cathedral, a marvel of Gothic architecture, offers panoramic views of the city from its terraces.
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Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: One of the world's oldest shopping malls, this gallery is a hub of luxury boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
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Brera Art Gallery (Pinacoteca di Brera): This gallery boasts an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art, including works by Raphael and Caravaggio.
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Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco): A historical fortress now home to museums and art collections, providing insights into Milan's rich history.
Milan, with its blend of history and modernity, promises a captivating experience for tourists, art lovers, and history enthusiasts alike.
Milan - Virtual Tour 360°
Address: Piazza della Scala, 2
Phone: 020202
Site:
https://www.turismo.milano.it/wps/portal/tur/itLocation inserted by
BBCC