The importance of Milan is nothing new. Ancient Romans called this place Mediolanum, or “the central place.” By the fourth century AD, it was the capital of the western half of the Roman Empire. After struggling through the early Middle Ages, Milan rose to prominence under the powerful Visconti and Sforza families. By the time the Renaissance hit, Leonardo had moved here and the city was called “the New Athens.” Milan’s cathedral, the city’s centrepiece, is the third largest church in Europe. It’s massive: 480 feet long and 280 feet wide, forested with 52 sequoia-sized pillars and populated by 2,000 statues. The place can seat 10,000 worshippers. Climbing the tight spiral stairs designed for the labourers who built the church, I emerge onto the rooftop in a forest of stony spires. Crowds pack the rooftop for great views of the city, the square, and, on clear days, the Italian Alps. But it’s the architectural details of the church that grab my attention. Marvelling
Share: Milan s main square and cathedral. // Photo by Cameron Hewitt, Rick Steves Europe(do not use again)
As we ve had to postpone our travels because of the pandemic, I believe a weekly dose of travel dreaming can be good medicine. Here s a reminder of the fun that awaits us in Europe at the other end of this crisis.
They say that for every church in Rome, there s a bank in Milan. Indeed, the economic success of postwar Italy can be attributed, at least in part, to this second city of bankers, publicists, and pasta power-lunchers. While overshadowed by Venice, Florence, and Rome in the minds of travelers, Milan still has plenty to offer anyone who visits.
How To Spend A Perfect Three Days In Milan, Italy
Dec.29.2020
Often overshadowed by Rome and Venice, Milan is the other great city of Italy, minus the tourists. The sophisticated city is the center of industry in Italy but is also the capital for Italian fashion and home design. Located in the north of Italy, near the Po Valley, Milan is close to many other desirable destinations in Italy, including Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, and Lugano, Switzerland.
We recommend staying in Milan for three days to experience the city fully, and below are our recommendations to get the most from your visit.