subject: 10 Must See Attractions in Milan [print this page] 10 Must See Attractions in Milan 10 Must See Attractions in Milan
Milan is located in the middle of the fertile Lombard Plain and has been occupied by successive powers, and like most important cities, it has been rebuilt many times. Milan although it lacks from the medieval informal charm of other Italian towns, has a number of attractions which are a must if one visits Milan..
The Duomo is the world's largest Gothic cathedral and the third largest church in Europe. Building began in 1386 and lasted nearly 500 years. Its marble facade is magnificent and its roof has hundreds of spires and thousands of statues. Inside, the crucifix is said to contain a nail from the cross of Christ.
The Sforzesco Castle houses several of the city's museums and art gallery collections. The castle dates to 1300s, became the home of the prominent Sforza family and had Leonardo Da Vinci living for a number of years. Nowadays, the castle has a series of museums including applied arts, ancient art, historical musical instruments, prehistory, Egyptian art and fine arts.
Museo del Duomo displays the 700 year old history of construction of the cathedral, with impressive walk-in wooden models, faade designs originating from several centuries, sculptures and more.
La Scala Theatre is one of the most renowned opera houses in the world seating over 2,000 people. It first opened in 1778 and re-opened in 2004 after extensive renovation.
Museo Teatrale alla Scala. A museum dedicated to the world's most famous opera house.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a huge glass-roofed shopping arcade lined with expensive shops, bars, and restaurants. Built in 1867, it links the squares of the Duomo and La Scala and has mosaics with the symbols of the cities forming the newly united Italy.
National Museum of Science and Technology Leonardo da Vinci is housed in what was once a 16th century monastery . The museum has a vast collection showing the history of science and technology starting from Leonardo da Vinci's machines.
Pinacoteca di Brera is one of Italy's most important art collections and features primarily Italian artists from the 15th and 16th centuries. Highlights include Raphael's "Marriage of the Virgin," Mantegna's "Dead Christ," Francesco Hayez' "The Kiss" and a Caravaggio "Supper at Emmaus."
Poldi Pezzoli Museum, is one of the world's richest private art collections.
Saint Mary of the Graces (Santa Maria delle Grazie') houses the famous Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci. Although the building was bombed in 1943, the fresco survived. It is best to reserve tickets a few months before the visit.
