Attractions in Milan

As a modern city, Milan is known for its ties to high fashion and is home to many fashion models, designers, and photographers. It is one of the biggest industrial cities in Italy. But as far as attractions and sightseeing, it’s hard to surpass the other things that Milan has to offer. Some of the most famous and popular attractions in Milan are:

The Duomo
This magnificent structure is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. When you think of Milan, you think of the Duomo. Construction began on it in 1386 and continued through the time of Napoleon in 1809. It contains 3,400 statues and is decorated with 96 gargoyles and 135 spires. Many of its windows are mosaic and in full sun light the colors help make the inside of the Duomo seem like a rainbow of color.

La Scala
This is one of the most famous opera houses in the world and is named for the church it sits beside, the Church of Santa Maria alla Scala. You don’t need a ticket to the opera to appreciate the beauty of La Scala. The museum here contains exhibits that honor Italy’s best opera composers and performers. Two entire halls are dedicated to Verdi.

Santa Maria delle Grazie
It is not generally this monastery that visitors to Milan flock to, but what is inside the refectory next to it. This is where Leonardo da Vinci painted his fresco of the Last Supper in the late 15th century. The famous painting has survived World War II when the roof of the building was restored. Restoration is on going on this masterpiece. Reservations to see The Last Supper should be made months in advance of an anticipated visit.

Sforzesco Castle
Built in the 14th century to protect the city, the Sforzesco Castle is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Milan. This enormous structure is broken up inside with three courtyards and it contains three museums, the most famous of which is the Museum of Historic Art. This museum contains, among other great works of art, Michelangelo’s last work, the Pieta.