Before Expo 2015, Milan had long been considered the forgotten sibling to its more resplendent neighbors like Venice, Florence, and Rome. While these cities stole the limelight with their artistic heritage and haunting ruins, Milan was often perceived as ‘grey’ and, even worse, ‘industrial’. However, with a changing urban landscape filled with shiny skyscrapers and lush green spaces, the tide is turning for this modern, elegant city.
Duomo’s Historic Beauty
There’s no missing this pristine vision in pink-veined marble, dripping with statues, gargoyles, and dazzling spires (135 to be exact). Not only is it Milan’s crowning glory located in the city’s physical and cultural heart, but it also has a significant story to tell. The Duomo’s construction required thousands of workers and a new canal system to transport the marble from the quarries of Candoglia, taking nearly six centuries to complete. The saying in Milanese, ‘longh cume la fabrica del domm’, refers to a task that never seems to end. For those interested in the history and legacy of this fascinating landmark, the Museo del Duomo houses countless sculptures, stained glass, and various materials linked to its construction.
The Architectural Makeover
This city is slowly embracing modernization, with remarkable architectural feats beyond the iconic Duomo. Since 2011, the soaring UniCredit skyscraper (Italy’s tallest), designed by Argentinian architect César Pelli, has been capturing attention. Furthermore, the nearby Bosco Verticale stands out as a groundbreaking residential high-rise overflowing with greenery and trees, presenting a model for future urban living. Additionally, the Darsena (Milan’s dock area) has been revitalized to feature a scenic pedestrian walkway, curated gardens, and a covered market. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II also shines brightly following a comprehensive cleanup sponsored by fashion titans Prada and Versace. Currently, the ambitious CityLife project aims to introduce three glittering skyscrapers and an impressive shopping district, alongside the city’s second biggest park.
A Cutting-Edge Design Festival
Milan has long created a strong association with design, and Fuorisalone is the city’s acclaimed week-long design festival. Occurring concurrently with the industry event Salone del Mobile, Fuorisalone is an entirely unique experience that captivates not just die-hard design enthusiasts. The festival boasts pop-ups, imaginative temporary events, installations from renowned brands and rising designers, and exclusive parties in hidden locations—showcasing Milan’s creative flair.
Da Vinci’s Infinite Genius
The quintessential Renaissance figure, Leonardo da Vinci, was born in Florence but spent 17 years in Milan, leaving a lasting impact on the city, including modernization of its canal system. Visitors can admire various artworks, such as a fresco of entwined mulberry branches in the Sala delle Asse at Castello Sforzesco. However, what most people seek is the awe-inspiring Last Supper, a dramatic mural that remains magnificent despite the wear attributed to time. Close by, the vineyard gifted to him by his patron, Duke Ludovico Sforza, has been carefully reconstructed to offer a peek into his private life. For those eager to explore his genius further, the Codex Atlanticus at Biblioteca Ambrosiana includes his valuable sketches and notes. Both the Museo Nazionale Scienza e Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci and the temporary Leonardo3 exhibition breathe life into his spectacular models.
The Fashion-Forward Immersion
Milan stands tall as one of the fashion capitals of the world, celebrated for its prestigious fashion weeks and stylish citizens. The heart of this dazzling scene is the aptly named Quadrilatero d’Oro (the ‘Golden Rectangle’). Enclosed by Via Monte Napoleone, Via Alessandro Manzoni, Via della Spiga, and Corso Venezia, this area boasts a high concentration of haute couture, featuring flagship stores from famed brands like Prada, Gucci, and Fendi. While exploring, visitors will discover that the streets emanate refinement and charm amidst a bustling crowd of sophisticated shoppers and inquisitive tourists.
World-Class Cuisine (and Not Just Italian)
As Italy’s most cosmopolitan city, Milan offers an exciting culinary landscape that transcends traditional Italian cuisine. The food scene thrives on creativity and innovation, creating unique dining experiences. Tokuyoshi, managed by former sous chef of the renowned Osteria Francescana, exemplifies this fusion by presenting a gastronomic adventure bridging Japan and Italy, including innovative dishes like aubergine panna cotta. Additionally, Contraste, led by rising chef Matias Perdomo, provides a transformative dining experience in an artistic environment adorned with blue ‘clouds’ and vibrant red chandeliers. Furthermore, Carlo e Camilla in Segheria, from elite chef Carlo Cracco, showcases modern Italian cuisine within a striking renovated sawmill, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a dramatic theater set.
A Stellar (and Underrated) Cocktail Scene
Milan’s remarkable bar scene often goes unnoticed, yet it boasts several hidden gems. Nottingham Forest, a globally recognized mixology bar, secures its place on any notable bar list. The innovative Dario Comini is the mastermind behind its intriguing drinks, which might even arrive in unconventional vessels like a bathtub or a skull. Similarly, the Botanical Club is rapidly gaining recognition. As Italy’s first small-batch gin distillery, it not only serves its house brand and an extensive selection of high-quality gins but also creates divine cocktails featuring unique elements like Tonka beans or rich lavender syrup.
