Milano

Milan. A place I hadn't troubled since my initial visit far too many years ago to remember when interrailing as a teenager. I'd returned to Italy's capital Rome (here), and the beautiful Venice (here) in the intervening years, but for whatever reason Milan was never high on my priorities until now. A return visit then was long overdue. Earlier this year it was exciting to escape the grey conditions on the ground at London Gatwick and see some azure skies above the clouds for the duration of the flight, before descending into the gloom once again to re-experience Milan. On arriving into Milano Centrale train station the first thing I did was to go outside and experience the stunning architectural façade of the terminal. Thankfully, still intact were the huge, geometric, Art Deco stone faces grimacing at visitors arriving and leaving on their travels. They were the one thing that stuck in my memory from my visit all those years ago, and it was comforting to make their acquaintance once again. From here it was a journey into the heart of the city and I was impressed by how easily walkable the city centre is. My hotel was a mere 10 minute walk from the main square the Piazza del Duomo, and other attractions such as the Santa Maria delle Grazie (home of Leonardo's Last Supper). On first impressions Milan reminded me of several other European cities, like Vienna, Lisbon, (and even Manchester! in the drizzle), with its iconic yellow trams which made a lovely, distinct sound as they rattled through the cobbled streets. During my stay I experienced some beautiful Italian Palazzo's and other architectural gems such as the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade, stunning Renaissance art at the Pinacoteca di Brera and Pinacoteca Ambrosiana, as well as eating delicious authentic Italian food. Stand outs were the amazing Duomo, the rooftop tour is well worth the effort of the climb. Seeing those spires topped by statues up close, with panoramic views across the city was an amazing experience. Seeing authentic drawings by Raphael and Leonardo da Vinci and also one the few authenticated paintings by the latter were also highlights of the visit. Sadly on this visit I was unable to secure tickets to see Leonardo's Last Supper, but this is the perfect excuse for me to arrange a future return visit. Below are my photographic impressions of the city. Ciao Milano!