Verano's Recipe of the Day

Milan, a northern Italian city, is the capital of the Province of Milano.  The city is part of the Lombardy Region, named after the Lombards.  Milan is the second most populated Italian city.  It has become a modern city, but has many cultural and historic landmarks for tourists to visit.

The principal square in Milan is the Piazza del Duomo. On the square is the Duomo, or cathedral, which is a Gothic structure of white marble.  The Duomo was begun in 1386 and completed in 1965.  Also on the square is the Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio.  The Basilica was built in 386 AD.  Near the Basilica is the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, built in the 15th Century.  Adjacent to the church is a former Dominican monastery.  This monastery contains the fresco, Last Supper, by Leonardo da Vinci.

Milan is a leading commercial, financial, and manufacturing center of Italy, as well as a center of artistic and intellectual life.  Milan leads Italian cities in the manufacture of chemicals and textiles. Many other commercial products are manufactured in Milan.  The products include: aircraft, automobiles, foodstuffs, clothing, glass, leather and rubber goods, machinery, pharmaceuticals, and plastics.  Milan is also known for its book and music publishing industry.  The principal stock exchange of Italy is also located in Milan.  In April, Milan is also host to an international trade fair.

Milan was made part of Austria in 1815.  At that time it became part of the Italian patriotic resistance.  The resistance, aided by Italy and the French, expelled the Austrians in 1859  Two years later, it became part of the kingdom of Italy.

Cultural Institutions

• Palazzo di Brera - 17th-century.

Contains the Brera Academy of Fine Arts, a library, and the Brera Art Gallery. 

• The Palazzo dell'Ambrosiana.

Contains the Biblioteca Ambrosiana.  Opened in 1609, it was possibly the first public library in Europe.

• Art museums, historical events, and natural history.

• The Institute for the Study of International Politics.

• The world-famous Teatro alla Scala opera house.

• Music conservatories and several universities.

Population

1,369,231 (1991 estimate)

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Tour of Northern Italian Dining