Milan

Milan is a large city located in the northern part of Italy. Popularly associated with fashion and clothing industry, this metropolitan city still has a lot to offer to visitors in terms of attractions, be it historic or modern.

Sights & Activities

Milan boasts of a landmark originating from the Roman times. The Columns of San Lorenzo is located along Corso di Porta Ticinese and are believed to be the remains of a Roman temple built in the 2nd century. Fronting it is the Basilica of San Lorenzo, considered to be the oldest church in the city. The church is known for its Christian mosaics that date back to the 4th century AD.

However, the city’s most impressive and imposing religious structure is the Duomo, dominating the Piazza del Duomo. Considered to the third largest church in the world, construction for the structure began in 1386 and was only completed in the 19th century. It is the seat of the Archbishop of Milan and is considered the center of the city. Its most striking feature is the Madonnina’s spire, where the polychrome statue of the Madonna is perched at the height of 108 meters. This Gothic style cathedral contains several sarcophagi of past archbishops, statues of saints, stained glass windows, and numerous paintings.

Along Corso Magenta is the Santa Maria delle Grazie, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 15th century. It contains the world famous ‘The Last Supper’ mural painted by Leonardo da Vinci.

Another famous landmark is the Arco della Pace or The Arch of Peace, located at Piazza Sempione. Inaugurated in 1838 and covered in Crevola marble, it also bears the bronze sculpture named ‘Chariot of Peace’ at its top.

Nearby is the Castello Sforzesco, whose original structures were built in the 14th century. The castle had been converted into a complex of museums and spaces for exhibitions. It is also where Michelangelo’s last work is contained, the unfinished ‘Rondanini Pieta.’

La Scala Theater is a world famous opera venue located at Piazza della Scala. Constructed in 1776, it stands on the site of the old Santa Maria della Scala church. The structure also features the Museo del Teatro, which showcases collections of paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.

There are also several gardens and parks located in Milan. The Parco Sempione is a large outdoor space that connects the Arch of Peace and the Castellol Sforzesco. Among its features are a monument to Napoleon III, a sulfur water fountain, a large man made lake, and the Torre del Parco, a steel tower.
The city’s largest park, however, is the Giardini Pubblici, located at Bastioni di Porta Venezia. The park contains several small lakes and a scattering of statues and monuments. The park is also where the Palazzo Dugnale is located, now converted into a greenhouse.

Weather

Though located in the northern part of the country, the climate of Milan is still described as Mediterranean. Summer in the city is still warm and gradually turns hot in the month of August. Spring and autumn are both pleasant, with the temperature cooler yet with plenty of sunshine. The winter months of November to February can get cold, with frequent rainfall. Icy winds from the north also necessitated the use of warm coats and other protective clothing to those who venture outdoors during this time.