Walking through this fashion capital, the urge to go and splurge on Prada, Valentino and Armani is overwhelming — not just because this is their home ground but also because most people in the city are fashionably dressed. But then the realisation that the wallet cannot withstand the onslaught of expenses restricts one to window shopping. Having said that, Milan is not just about fashion — it’s about history, food and fun.
All roads in Milan lead (figuratively and even literally) to the Duomo, a church that took 500 years to be built. With 3,500 statues and 135 spires, the marble building has a magnificent and intricate neo-Gothic and Baroque façade. If you enjoy art, there are many interesting pieces inside the church but if you want to soak in all of Milan, then head to the roof, for a fee though. The city is breathtaking from the roof of the Duomo and is the perfect photo spot. And if you’re lucky, you even get to see the Alps.
Around the Piazza del Duomo, there are plenty of things to do. The 19th century Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a favourite haunt for many and blends old Milan with the new — so on side, for instance, you find a McDonald’s and on the other, old world cafés like Biffi. Make sure you grab a dessert and an espresso at Biffi before you start your galleria adventure.
The glass-domed galleria is beautiful and there are paintings of various continents that adorn the ceiling. You’ll discover four mosaics displaying coat of arms on the ground floor dedicated to the three capitals of Italy (Rome, Florence and Turin) and Milan.
Around the galleria, there are local artists who make a coal sketch of yours (costs around 15 Euro). I assigned the prestigious task of doing mine to Signor Luiggi who took about 25 minutes. He had sketches of famous Hollywood stars and mine turned out to be something between a caricature and a portrait, but it was a nice memento to take home and frame.
With sketch in hand, it was time to seek out lunch options around the Duomo. It is relaxing to sit back at one of the restaurants round the square, sip on wine and watch the world go by. For the meal, risotto alla Milanese, osso bucco and costoletta alla Milanese are recommended but if you’re vegetarian then funghi porcini or pesto pasta (freshly made) is delicious. Post lunch, the Ferrari store on Piazza del Liberty caught my eye. Those who love F1 and Ferarri are sure to pick many souvenirs here as they have everything from toys to clothing.
Having spent most of the day at Il Salotto di Milano (Milan's living room) or the galleria, it was time to see Leonardo Da Vinci’s renowned painting, The Last Supper. Strolling down from the Piazza del Duomo to the Santa Maria delle Grazie that houses the fresco, I came across people leisurely enjoying coffee, young fashion students milling around and plenty of gelato stands. As you walk along, don’t forget to pick up a gelato (try the unusual varieties like coconut, ginger and pear).
Considering the church houses such an important work of art, the building exudes simplicity. It saves time if you book tickets online in advance. All the secrets that Leonardo Da Vinci’s fresco is constantly unravelling are fascinating. Standing before this work of art actually gives you a sense of taking part in a slice of history. It’s visually breathtaking and intriguing to say the least. The day has been well spent and thoroughly enjoyed. And as for the memories, that’s something I still cherish now that I am back home.
