Milan is not only one of Europe’s wealthiest cities, but it is also a major cultural seat and a huge metropolis area. A leading member in the European Communities financial world, Milan has one of the greatest historic densities in Italy, which is proved all year round by the large number of visitors that simply flood Lombardy. Other unique items that make Milan a one of a kind are the Alfa Romeo cars and Panettone cake. A virtual tour of the city’s greatest attractions will show you the cultural diversity that this place offers and will definitely prepare you for the real Milan experience.
Milan knew the conquest of several nations and cultures, one more curious and interesting than the other. Founded by the Celts in the 4th century BC, Milan was conquered by the Romans, sieged by the Visigoths, overran by Huns and destroyed by the Ostrogoths. After its reconstruction, it was included in the Holy Roman Empire, becoming a prosperous trade centre in the region and later proclaiming its independence together with other Lombard cities. A leading city in the Renaissance, Milan achieved cultural and economic preeminence in the north of the country throughout the coming centuries, right up to the present day.
One of the most spectacular places in Milan and probably one of the city’s landmarks is the Dome of Milan (Il Duomo di Milano), the largest cathedral in the North of Italy, and the second of its kind in the world, after the Dome of Seville. Situated in the centre of the Old City, all the streets seem to radiate from it. Feel free to wander about! The facade of the building is totally outstanding, not to mention the five naves divided by ranges of forty pillars. Don’t miss the chance of climbing up the roof to discover some unique sculptures that would have remained unappreciated without the effort. A panoramic splendid view will definitely please the eye of any tourist.
Next stop is Sforza Castle or Castello Sforzesco that is now an open art gallery and a homage paid to a glorious past. Built in the 14th century as part of an aristocratic property, it went through several reconstructions and reconditioning stages over the centuries. You’ll be delighted to find the very last sculpture created by Michelangelo together with one of Leonardo da Vinci’s manuscripts on display here. Tourists find a castle tour an enriching cultural experience that takes them into the Italian historic and artistic past.
One of the oldest Italian churches, and another focal attraction point in Milan, is the Basilica Saint Ambrosio, built in the 4th century. The very area has given many martyrs that have died during the Roman persecutions. In fact this is Basilica Martyrum. The curious thing is the facade makes the edifice look hut-like, you’ll surely enjoy. The mosaics inside the basilica are as unique as they are old, depicting various religious situations, of which the Jesus pantokrator is the most famous.
It is the very same Basilica Ambrosiana that houses the famous Library devoted to the same St. Ambrose, the patron saint of Milan. History fans, this is a place to remember! The library houses some of the most valuable manuscripts in the world including the illuminated Iliad, known as the Ilia Picta. Part of the documents came from a very old and long-lasting Benedictine monastery, monastery of Bobbio, and some others trace their origins to Greece and even Syria. Far more rewarding experiences come with a thorough exploration of the beauties of Milan by yourself!