Milan is one of Italy’s most fashionable cities but it also holds several historic and artistic attractions, including the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, The Last Supper painting, and the famous La Scala Opera House. The prestigious Milan opera house is a decadent site so prepare to be wowed as you check out its ornate stage, which glistens under crystal chandeliers. La Scala is known far and wide for its incomparable acoustics and the many musical giants who performed here or had their works performed here including Verdi; opera singer, Maria Callas; and Arturo Toscanini. It is also home to Scuolo di Ballo (La Scalla’s Ballet Company) and Museo Teatrale alla Scala which is located in its annex.
The Duomo is the world’s largest Gothic cathedral and the third largest church in Europe. Building began in 1386 and lasted nearly 500 years! Its marble facade is magnificent and its roof has 135 spires and 3200 statues. Inside, the crucifix is said to contain a nail from the cross of Christ. Its piazza is the hub of Milan. Be sure to climb the stairs or take the elevator to the top for views of Milan from the rooftop and a close look at the Duomo’s spires.
Santa Maria della Grazie contains Da Vinci’s famous fresco, the Last Supper. Although the building was bombed in 1943, the fresco survived.
After touring Milan we continue south to Tuscany and will experience the rural charm, a timeless rolling landscape of fertile agricultural land, ancient woodland, olive groves, volcanic lakes and narrow valleys. The Tuscan landscape is one of the most evocative and romantic in Europe with cypress trees lining the roads, olive groves, vineyards, ancient hill-top towns and, of course, classic Renaissance cities.