Lombardy
Lombardy is the region in Italy with the most inhabitants. There are 10 million people living in the region, which is pronounced with the emphasis on the i. Lombardy is one of the richest areas in Europe. Milan is the capital of the region. The city’s most famous sight is the Duomo di Milano, the impressive church that stands out from other buildings nearby. From the beginning in the year 1386, it took almost 600 years to complete the cathedral. Several times the work stopped, and the longest break was 100 years. Napoleon Bonaparte took over the work and had the front façade completed in 7 years. The cathedral consists of 3500 sculptures and statues. At the top of the highest spire is a 4 meter gold-plated statue of the Virgin Mary La Madonnina. Not far from the Duomo di Milano you can visit the museum that has Da Vinci’s Communion on display. You must book tickets well in advance to see the painting. Bergamo Airport is located in Lombardy, with two other airports near Milan. To the north, the region borders the Alps. Here is also popular Lake Como. Parts of Lake Garda are also located in the region. South of Lake Garda lies the popular peninsula of Sirmione. If you fly to Bergamo, only half an hour by train or bus to Milan awaits you. Milan is top notch in terms of shopping and football matches. A local match between Milan and Inter draws 80,000 people. It is festive to watch Italians at a football match. Here all emotions emerge. The Franciacorta area produces Italy’s answer to Champagne. If you like Prosecco, you have to try Franciacorta! Food: In Lombardy, it is common to use polenta instead of bread. Rice replaces pasta and butter is preferred over oil. The region stretches from the Alps in the north, via the Po plain and to the Apennines in the south.
