5 Places You Must Visit in Milan
Thinking about visiting a new city? Well, Milan is one of the best places to visit for a vacation. It’s by far one of the most beautiful cities in the world. From historic sites to modern sky-scrapers, this city offers everything a tourist wants to see.
Insubres — an ancient Greek civilization built the city of Milan in 400 BC. In ancient times, Milan has served as the Capital of the Western Roman Empire, the Kingdom of Lombardy–Venetia and the Duchy of Milan.
The city was severely damaged during World War II. However, it has recovered substantially after the war ended and has seen high economic growth ever since.
Today, Milan stands as one of the biggest fashion capitals in the world, with at least 20,000 people attending its flagship event — Milan Fashion Week every year.
Interested in exploring this city? Well, let’s talk about the places that are a must-see for any tourist.
Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano)
Milan Cathedral is the most important landmark in the city. With the capacity of almost 40,000, Duomo di Milano is the largest gothic cathedral in the world.
The construction of this cathedral began in 1386 and finished in 1965 — nearly took 500 years! As a tourist, it’s worth a visit. The cathedral’s exterior is made out of perfectly carved stones which will leave you completely amazed.
Plus, the interior contains 5 naves consisting of 52 columns — where each column represents one week of the year.
However, the fun doesn’t end here. A visit to the top of the cathedral is a must! Milan’s changing skyline presents an unforgettable experience which will leave you in awe.
San Siro Stadium
Home to the two of the biggest football (soccer) teams in the world, Inter and AC Milan. San Siro has an atmosphere like no other. With the capacity to hold 80,000 people at a time. The stadium is sometimes trembling with the noise made by the supporters.
Now, imagine sitting there in the stadium and watching how vibrantly Milanese football fans are singing chants to support their team. Even if you aren’t interested in the sport, consider visiting San Siro just to feel the atmosphere that surrounds that stadium.
Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology
Dedicated after probably the most well-known painter of all time, Leonardo da Vinci. The inauguration of Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology was in 1953 conducted by the prime minister of Italy, Alcide De Gasperi.
It is one of the biggest and one of the most important science and tech museums in the world. This gigantic museum is divided into seven main departments.
- Energy
- Materials
- Transport
- New Frontiers
- Communication
- Science for young people
- Leonardo da Vinci, Art & Science
This museum is a must-see place for every tourist that is planning to visit Milan. The museum contains several sketches and blueprints made by Leonardo da Vinci himself. Also, the museum contains several scientific inventions and pieces that played a massive part in how we live today.
Sforza Castle
Located in the city’s heart. The Visconzi family originally built the Sforza Castle in the 13th century to defend the city against their enemies during the Renaissance period. However, it serves a different purpose these days.
Today, Sforza Castle serves as a host for several museums. These museums include:
- The Egyptian Museum — contains information about the Pharaohs and ancient Egyptian text.
- The Antique Furniture and Wooden Sculpture Museum — contains work of Alberto Issel, Carlo Bugatti and Ettore Sottsass.
- The Museum of Decorative Arts — contains medieval pottery and collection of chinaware and earthenware.
- The Museum of musical instruments — contains 700 ancient musical instruments that which were used back in the 15th century.
- The Pinacoteca del Castello Sforzesco — contains 230 artworks of world class painters including the works of Mantegna, Pisanello, Luini,, Lotto and others.
- The Archaeological Museum of Milan — contains Greek, Roman and Etruscan artefacts and texts.
Sforza Castle is surrounded by large guard towers, a massive fountain and beautiful scenery that will just blow you away. So, when you decide to visit Milan, make sure to add Sforza Castle to your list!
Torre Branca
Constructed in 1933 by one of the most famous architects in Italian history — Gio Ponti. Torre Branca, formerly known as Torre Littoria, is 108.6 meters high, making it the 6th highest building in Milan.
Torre Branca provides a view that is like no other. By ascending to the top of this amazing structure, you can experience a unique view of the city.
Plus, when the sky’s clear, you can even witness the beauty of Alp and Apennine mountains right from the top of the tower. Thus, without visiting Torre Branca, your visit to Milan is incomplete.
Conclusion
Milan is one of those places that every tourist has in mind. From archaeological remains to modern state-of-the-art buildings, the city strikes the perfect balance between the historical and the modern experience that provides a visitor with a lifetime of memories.
