Italy’s Fashion Center–Milan

Renowned as one of the world capitals of fashion, Milan is one of the most beautiful metropolitan destinations in all of Europe. Milan’s impact on fashion and design can not be overstated. Milan is so synonymous with fashion that the English word milliner–a maker or seller of women’s hats–is derived from the Italian word meaning ‘resident of Milan’.

Uncountable legions of visitors flock to Milan every year to visit its sites and bathe in its ancient splendor. One of the most popular attractions, the one no visitor or tourist would neglect, is the galleria. The galleria is widely reputed to be the world’s oldest shopping mall. The galleria lives up to its name, seeming more like a palatial art gallery than a center of commerce, but considering its raison d’etre and status as main attraction, it’s small wonder Milan is often referred to as the New York of Italy.

You may be getting the impression that Milan is all image obsessed Italians looking their best and trying to outshine their glorious and storied surroundings. This is not the case. As stylish as Milan is, there is great substance to this historic city. Within the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie hangs Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper. There are also a number of history and art museums dedicated to enlightening the visitor.