| Best known by some as
the fashion capital of Italy
and by others as Italy’s most important financial center, Milan
is a busy, crowded city that nonetheless offers an appeal to travelers
of all ages. As Italy’s most populous and prosperous city, some
think it lacks the charm of Florence
or Rome.
Nevertheless, with its large number of museums and cultural attractions,
this city is a delight to visit and its excellent public transportation
system makes it easier to navigate than some of Italy’s more popular
tourist cities.
Those who head to Milan for the fashion experience will enjoy the city’s
Golden Quadrilateral, a great place to catch a glimpse of what’s
hot in high fashion. Shopping
here is a dream for even the most die-hard shopaholic! Have the credit
cards ready!
If you’ve come for the sightseeing opportunities, fans of historic
architecture will certainly want to visit the many churches and castles
located throughout Milan. History buffs will no doubt want to take in
the fine selection of museums. Several attractions are not to be missed
on a trip to Milan:
- Teatro alla Scala – Better known by its more famous name,
La Scala, this theater is by far the most well-known opera house in
the world and tickets to see a production here are a must for any
classical music buff. Composer Guiseppe Verdi garnered his reputation
inside these very walls and a number of great singers have sung their
way to the top. Having recently undergone renovations, La Scala is
more magnificent than ever.
- Santa Maria della Grazie – This church is most famous not
for its architecture but for what’s inside – the “real”
DaVinci’s The Last Supper. Viewed by reservation only, the artwork
has undergone major restorations and is now brilliantly clear and
easy to view. Don’t miss touring the remainder of the church,
which is quite wonderful as well.
- Pinacoteca di Brera – This wonderful art museum is a must-see
for cultural sightseers and includes early works of Raphael and Francesca
as well as 20th century paintings and sculpture. With thirty-eight
rooms, this museum could consume the better part of your day, so visitors
may decide to choose just a few rooms (chronologically ordered) which
house works from their favorite period.
- Museo
Nazionale della Scienza e Tecnica – If you’re traveling
with children, they’ll be thrilled with this museum. It gives
visitors a look at a unique array of technological achievements developed
over the centuries, but many guests visit the museum for a look at
the technical drawings of the great Leonardo DaVinci. Kids will love
the interactive moving models of his “aerial screw” and
“beating wing”, thought to be the predecessors of the
modern-day helicopter and airplane.
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