Lombardia

One of Italy's 20 regions, Lombardy (also known as Lombardia) is a fascinating place. Within the region is the infamous city of Milan, the largest city in the north of Italy, known worldwide for its fashion output. Fashion, however, is not Milan's only claim to fame. It is a fast-paced, whirlwind cultural experience that wouldn't be complete without its marvelous museums or monumental pieces of architecture. One such building that is an absolute must-see on a trip to Milan is called the Duomo.
















According to Sacred-Destinations.com, the Duomo is one of the world's largest cathedrals, second only to the cathedral of Seville, Spain. Beginning in the late 1300s, its construction took several hundred years to complete. Over time, design trends change and thus, this cathedral is a brilliant combination of both Gothic and neo-Gothic architecture. For more information about the Duomo, visit the Sacred Destinations website at http://www.sacred-destinations.com/italy/milan-duomo.htm.
98 miles south east of Milan you will find another exceptionally charming Lombardy city: Mantua (Mantova). Though it might seem somewhat uninviting in the winter months due to the immense fog (the city is located on the banks of the Mincio River), the city's art makes it an attractive and popular travel destination. A center of Renaissance art, Mantua's monuments are largely dedicated to a single family, the Gonzagas, a peasant family who took over the city in the early 1300s, controlling it until the 1700s. Their control spanned over some of the most influential years in Italian art and since the Gonzagas were passionate about art, their collections can still be seen all over the city, especially in their former home, Palazzo Ducale.