Milan

Despite its rich and vivid history, the representatives of two nationalities live in Milan: the Italians and Lombards. But the city doesn’t have a problem with people. Annually, tourists from all corners of the world come to explore it. Unlike the majority of the Italians, local citizens are extremely punctual and have an excellent knowledge of English. Moreover, the Milaneses are gallant and tactful. They mention by name just their friends and relatives. Colleagues and acquaintances are called by the last name only.

The largest city in Italy dates back to 600 BC and is considered to be the most ancient city in Europe. According to the scientists, it was one founded by one of the tribes of the oldest Celtic nation, insubres. Afterward, the city was conquered by the Romans and was named Mediolanum. Throughout its history, Milan was exposed to many declines and revivals, it was under the reign of Theodosius I and Visconti family, went through the Spanish domination, survived the epidemic of plague and the Napoleonic Wars. It was one of the main centers fighting for the unification of Italy and even became the bulwark of Nazism led by Benito Mussolini. The city was severely destroyed after World War II and its two suburbs — Precotto and Terro — wiped off from the face of the Earth.

Despite the tragic events, it managed to save the cultural heritage of the past centuries: buildings in the Renaissance and Classicism styles, red-bricked Lombard romance. Milan Cathedral became the symbol of the city together with Sforza Castle, the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio, and La Scala theatre where you can listen to the best operatic voices in the world.

Worldwide renowned artists were born and worked in Milan: a painter of the baroque epoch Caravaggio, a composer Giuseppe Verdi and Leonardo da Vinci. He was an incredibly talented person who was the greatest painter, sculptor, architect, writer, scientist and naturalist, inventor, and innovator in one person. One of Leonardo da Vinci’s monumental works – “The Last Supper” – is still kept in Santa Maria delle Grazie. 

Milan today is the trading and economic center of Italy, one of the capitals of the world’s fashion where Giorgio Armani, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Prada are being produced.

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for visiting the capital of Lombardy. These are the most favorable periods for long walks or throwing a real shopping-marathon. It’s too hot and stuffy during the summer months in Milan. However, if you are hunting for sales, this fact should not scare you off. Especially, when Versace has up to 80% off. Milan in winter is rainy and foggy, but the city undergoes a marvelous transformation before Christmas. It looks absolutely festive, stylish and becomes extremely cozy.