A Weekend Away: Milano

Ciao! This weekend I traveled to Milan, one of the world’s fashion capitals. We arrived at the end of Milan’s Fashion Week 2013, and the city was draped in many large advertisements for numerous worldwide brands. Past the displays, I took a step back in history to experience the Piazza del Duomo, the city’s main square. The Piazza hosts the Milan Cathedral, the Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery, and the Royal Palace of Milan. Finished in 1577, the Gothic, marble Cathedral is the fourth largest in the world.

 

The piazza took me back to my time at the Piazza San Marco in Venice, but with prominent architectural and atmospheric differences. While the Milan Cathedral is of Gothic influence, St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice is of Byzantine, or medieval architecture. Stucturally the buildings couldn’t be more different; the Basilica with its domes, mosaics, and “Church of Gold” nickname is opposite to the Cathedral’s openwork pinnacles and gargoyles. Just a few hours away from each other and the influences and inspiration are worlds apart.

Another difference was in the people. While in Venice, the street vendors and store clerks were eager for business but also respected tourists’ personal space. In Milan, I felt crowded by men selling bracelets and other vendors either looking for a sale or maybe even to swipe a camera or two. I didn’t feel the sense of security like in Venice and made sure to stay close to my group.

The next day we ventured an hour outside the city to Lake Como, one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy, a popular spot for water activities, and home to many famous residents such as Madonna, George Clooney, Ronaldinho, Sylvester Stallone, and Richard Branson. When I stepped off the train I expected a sunny, beachy place like I’ve seen in Casino Royale and Oceans Twelve. Though certainly beautiful, the area was covered in a thin layer of snow and we retreated to a quaint cafe for a few hours. After lunch we walked along the coast and admired the beautiful homes and small shops that adorned the water. Just like in the movies, the lakeside villas were breathtaking and supported by rich histories. Many of the villas were built hundreds of years ago and hosted aristocrats while entertaining them with beautiful gardens, parks, fountains, and sculptures. Hopefully I can make it back someday when its a little warmer to see the gardens!

Ciao for now!

Ellen