Running in Milan: the fashion capital of the world
Before becoming a city of design and fashion and establishing itself as one of Italy’s leading tourist destinations, Milan took on many different identities. Founded in 590 BC by the Celtic tribe of the Insubres, Medialanum became, in turn, the Western Roman capital, a stronghold of the Holy Roman Empire and a centre of the Italian Resistance. Running through the Lombard capital will take you on a journey through the different chapters of its history.
‘A trip to Lombardy means "Milan" of happiness’.
Milan's name, in French, sounds like "a thousand years"... With this play on words, Belgian author Gaëtan Faucer invites us with humour to discover the capital of Lombardy and its rich past.
Situated in northern Italy, in the Po Valley, Milan was, according to legend, founded by two Etruscan commanders. Unless, that is, it was the Celtic tribe of the Insubres or the Gallic Bituriges who were responsible for its founding...
In 222 BC, the city was conquered by the Romans before becoming one of the most important centres of Christianity. It became the capital of a duchy during the Middle Ages, ruled initially by the Visconti family. Their name still appears on the ramparts of the Sforza Castle, a 15th-century fortress situated in the city centre. Over the centuries, the duchy passed into the hands of the great powers of the time: France, Spain and Austria.
In the mid-19th century, the political unification of Italy marked the beginning of the city’s industrial dominance over the north of the country. Major railway construction projects were undertaken, and the region’s stone quarries were put to use. As the home of the country’s most influential banks, it became Italy’s leading financial centre. Indeed, it is now the seat of the Italian Stock Exchange.
Following the damage caused by the Second World War, Milan underwent a major architectural transformation, characterised by the construction of numerous skyscrapers and other large-scale buildings. Examples include the Città della Moda and the Pirelli Tower, built near the central station. The modernity of these new neighbourhoods coexists with an older heritage of palaces, squares and museums. It is a feast for the eyes of the 2 million tourists who visit the city each year.
An exceptional heritage
In 2015, Milan was chosen to host the historic World Expo. This is certainly not unrelated to the prestige of its cultural heritage.
One of Milan’s most famous landmarks is undoubtedly its opera house: La Scala. Situated in the heart of the city, the theatre is a true icon and has been the venue for the world’s most renowned operas, such as Bellini’s *Norma*. In Piazza del Duomo, the imposing cathedral and its 136 decorative spires are sure to impress lovers of Gothic art. As you walk through the square, you can also admire a statue of Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of Italy following its unification. Opposite the cathedral, the Royal Palace of Milan was once the residence of the House of Savoy, before being converted into an exhibition centre.
Not far away, Piazza Mercanti offers an equally impressive view. Once the centre of the town in medieval times, the square is surrounded by four palaces, including the Palazzo della Regione, a building constructed in the 13th century which served as the seat of justice. Opposite stands the Loggia degli Osii, a 14th-century building constructed for Matteo I Visconti.
The Fashion Capital
Milan is undoubtedly the capital of design and haute couture. Four of the city’s legendary streets, including Via Montenapoleone, are home to the biggest luxury brands from Italy and around the world, from Prada to Gucci and Levi’s. Together, they form the Fashion Quadrilateral.
Since 1958, the capital of Lombardy has hosted its Fashion Week twice a year. It’s a time for spectacle, breathtaking outfits and celebrities.
For the rest of the year, Milan continues to make a name for itself when it comes to style: renowned fashion schools, the National Chamber of Fashion, a district dedicated to Milanese haute couture...
Finally, the Vittorio Emanuele shopping arcade is sure to dazzle many a visitor! Built in a neoclassical style with baroque influences, this historic shopping centre is nicknamed ‘Milan’s drawing room’. It stands out not only for its magnificent glass roof designed by Giuseppe Mengoni, but also for its gourmet restaurants and luxury boutiques.
The European capital of sport
In a completely different sphere, Milan is also a force to be reckoned with: football. Two clubs vie for supremacy in the city: AC Milan and Inter Milan. Having each won the Champions League on several occasions, they have also both emerged victorious in the Club World Cup. This has made Milan the most successful city in terms of club honours, alongside Madrid.
It is at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, known as San Siro, that the players compete in their matches. The most intense of these, the Derby della Madonnina, see the two clubs face off, with their supporters, of course, showing mutual respect!
When it comes to cycling, Milan is no slouch either. Having hosted the Road Cycling World Championships in 1926, it has also been the starting point for the Milan–San Remo race and the venue for the final stage of the Giro d’Italia.
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