In Latin, ''Mediolanum'', or land in the middle, would be conquered by the Romans in 222 B.C. and later joined with the Empire, which would give it its name. Its geographical location would lend well to benefit the defense of the Empire against the Barbarians on the northern front. The city''s significance would be such that during the 3rd century A.D. it would become the Imperial seat, and eventually one of the most powerful cities in all of Europe, second always to Rome. In 313 A.D. Emperor Constantine would issue the Edict of Tolerance for Christianity, and open the doors for the rapid spread of Christianity throughout the region and during this time many of the churches and holy structures in the city would be erected.

Following the decline of the Roman Empire, Milan would be left particularly vulnerable to the insurgents of the Barbarians, and later would be conquered by the Longobards in the later years of the 6th century. But economic developments would foster the continued growth of the city through the Caolingian rule in the 8th century. This wealth brought major expansion and during this time a wall would be erected around the perimeter of the city of which some of the original gates still stand today.

The growth and expansion of the city would continue through the leadership of the Visconti family during the 13th century. Milan would enjoy a lengthy reign of wealth and splendor under their rule. Perhaps the greatest architectural accomplishment during this time was the symbol of the city, the Duomo. Construction began on this enormous, Gothic Cathedral in 1386 and would continue through the next 5 centuries.

After a brief period of republican rule, the city''s leadership would be acquired by the Sforza family. With them came the silencing of the city''s continuous rivalry with Florence and Venice and time of great economic prosperity. They would rule throughout the Renaissance, and commission the Castello Sforesco which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city today bringing travellers from near and far. The city would also commission Bramante & da Vinci, the later would compose ''The Last Supper'' on the walls of Santa Maria delle Grazie. It was a great time for intellectual and spiritual rebirth. Soon though, the success of the city would draw the attention of the French & Spanish monarchies.

The Spanish would prevail in the battle for control of this great city and rule from 1535 to 1706 however, the city would stagnate under the rule of Charles V and then in 1630 the city would be nearly desimated by the plague. Remnants from the Spanish rule under the Borromeo family can still be visited today, the Spanish Walls which surround Milan''s historical center, still stand in homage to the Borromeo''s.

At the start of the 18th century leadership yet again changed hands, and thus would begin the rule of the Austrian Imperial dynasty, the Hapsburg. Perhaps the greatest contribution to the city was the creation of the great neoclassical building, La Scala, the first Opera House on the Old Continent. In the late 18th century there would be a brief and zealous rule under the the Napoleonic French, but after his defeat the Austrian''s would return to rule until the mid-19th century the Austrians would be driven out of the city by its people, upholding the ideals of the Kingdom. With the unification of Italy, Milan quickly became the commercial and financial center of the nation. The city would continue to prosper and in 1919 the Fascist party was founded there. The people of the city, with little exception, accepted the dictatorship of Mussolini who ironically would face his death in this same city after attempting to escape the country following his demise.

Milan is no stranger to the conflict, and within her city walls you are sure to find a history rich with cultural heritage. Her architecture illustrates the struggle and strife she has overcome to become the financial seat of her country, home to the Italian Stock Exchange, and one of the great fashion capitals of the world, an inspiration to Italian designers and a variable mecca to the fashion conscious of the world. No visit to Italy would be complete without traveling to Milan.

The Historical Center - Home to the great Duomo, the Castello Sforzesco , the Piazza della Scala and the fashion district. This is the true heart of the city, also known as the Old City and an essential destination on your travel itinerary.

Venezia - You will find Corso Buenos Aires, the largest commercial road in the city.

Magenta - Home to some high-end boutiques, and finer estates.

Ticinese-Navigli - Once home to the blue-collar workers, this area has been extensively renovated and now attracts many successful architects, artists and fashion designers.

Amendola-Fiera - This residential area offers the beautiful Idroscalo where you can swim, sunbathe or sail!

Citta'' Studi - The University district east of the center city.

Milano Malpensa (MXP)

Distance from Milano city : 46 Km

Phone Numbers:
Domestic Arrivals: 02-26800463
International Flights: 02-26800619
Domestic Departures: 02-26800606
Lost Luggages: 02-74854215

Milano Linate (LIN)

Distance from Milano city : 10 Km

Phone Numbers:
Domestic Arrivals: 02-28106282
International Arrivals: 02-28106310
Domestic Departures: 02-28106300
International Departures: 02-28106324
Lost Luggages: 02-70124451

Bring your camera and your credit cards as you wind through the fabulous streets lined with exclusive designer showrooms, high society boutiques and Milan''s greatest monuments. Adjacent to the city''s sparkling symbol, the Duomo, you will find exclusive, world-renowned vendors lining the streets. Those in the know call this area the ''Quadrilatero d''oro'' or Golden Rectangle:

Via Montenapoleone - You will find showcase storefronts for Valentino, Gianni Versace, Salvatore Ferragamo, Gucci, Fratelli Rossetti, Etro, Loro Piana, Luis Viuitton, Prada, Cariter and Tanino Crisci.

Via Spiga - Home to such lush vendors as Dolce & Gabbana, Bottega Veneta, Buglari, Gigli, Krizia, Gianfranco Ferre'', Sergio Rossi, Chopard and still more Prada,

Via Sant'' Andrea - Home to lavish retailers Chanel, Fendi, Armani, Mochino, Missoni, Kenzo, Cesare Paciotti, Hermes, Prada and Trussardi.

Via Manzoni - #31 is the flagship showroom for the Armani collection, including the casa and fiori lines. You can also find home décor retailers Swaya & Moroni and Driade,

Via Torino - This street is for the young, hip and trendy teens and tweens.

Corso Buenos Aires - For those shoppers who have no qualms about dressing ''so last season!'' You will find clothing, shoes and accessories in a series of stockhouses, priced to sell!

Beyond the big players in the ''Quadrilatero d''oro'' you will find boutiques and shops throughout the city offering clothing, shoes, accessories, jewelry, home goods, antiques, linens, silk and leather are easily found throughout the city. Bargain shoppers do not despair! Milan serves every consumer on every level and will ensure you return from your travels heavily laden. For a more moderate budget, but an equally passionate vigor for the finer things, check out the sales, ''saldi.'' Offered twice a year, January and July, retailers throughout the city slash prices as much as 75%! Deals are hard to miss!

Open-air markets are also a great experience in Milan. Your chances of finding last season''s hot trends are likely AND the prices are often negotiable. Many are located throughout the city, each tends to be just day of per week and most are seasonal. Find fruit and flowers, new & used clothes, art and antiques, you name it you are sure to find it. Ask your concierge in locating the best during your visit. If you get a chance the Saturday morning institution is the Fiera di Senigallia which takes place on Viale d''Annunzio near the pier. For those less interested in purchases, you will find a great deal of people watching to be had as locals haggle with merchants for the best deals.

The Duomo - Milan''s grand Cathedral is an exceptional representation of Gothic Renaissance architecture.

Castello Sforesco - Commission by the Sforza family, this Gothic-Renaissance castle is remarkably majestic.

La Scala - A shrine to the art of opera, performances are not being held here through December 2004 as a massive refurbishing is underway. But it''s beauty is beyond that of the service it provides, the architectural splendor of the theatre makes it a picturesque stop for a picnic al fresco.

The Royal Palace - Near the Piazza Duomo you will find a structure dating back to 1100 A.D.. Once home to some of the most powerful leaders in Milan, you will find the building now plays host to art and cultural exhibitions.

Santa Maria delle Grazie - Home to Leonardo da Vinci''s ''The Last Supper.''

Arco della pace - Home to ''Sestiga,'' with horse drawn chariot, this neoclassical monument dates back to the Napoleonic era.

The Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science & Technology - A world class collection celebrating da Vinci''s innovations and contributions to technology in science and so much more!

Archi di Porta Nuova - Restored in 1861 these are the remnants of the great city wall built to protect medieval Milan.

Stazione Centrale - In keeping with the great cities of New York, London, Paris and Rome, Milan also offers a noteworthy rail station. One of the largest in all of Europe, this impressive structure conveniently offers a selection of shops as well.

Palazzo Bagatti-Valsecchi - This family estate was once one of the finest homes in Milan. Her heirs have opened her doors for the public to view a glimpse of the fine collection of art she hosts.

Grattacielo Pirelli (The Pirelli Tower) - The first building in Milan to be higher than the Madonna who graces the highest peak on the Duomo, this tower became a sort of symbol of post WWII reconstruction in Milan.

For a quick lunch:
Crota Piemunteisa - Piazza Beccaria 10. This paninoteca offers a wide variety of hearty sandwiches and is close in proximity to the Duomo for convenient lunches between sightseeing and shopping.

Amico - With several branches throughout the city, you are sure to find one wherever you are. Be prepared to serve yourself, as meals are fast paced in this establishment.

Brek - Various locations. Another self-serve establishment offering great quality cuisine for little money.

Ristorante Pizzeria delle Mole - Naviglio Grande. Great pizza and great prices.

Osteria Borromei - Via Borromei. With a welcoming décor, great traditional food, this moderately priced eatery is a great place to enjoy your evening under the fine vine-covered arbor.

II Coriandolo - Via dell''Orso 1. This elegant eatery offers the freshest traditional Milanese dishes anywhere. Relax, enjoy the local wine and the true Italian experience.

Bistrot - Via San Raffaele 2. On the top floor of the Rinascente department store, you will find this high end, contemporary Italian eatery. This is an ideal place to view the spires of the stunning Duomo.