Lombardy, Ital. Lombardia, region N Italy, bordering on Switzerland in the north.
Milan is the capital of the region. Milan, a large metropolis, extending over an area consisting of
almost thirty municipalities is undoubtedly the most important industrial and
commercial centre in Europe with political and cultural influence. Despite its
prevalently modern appearance, the city has a heritage of artistic treasures and
famous monuments.
By tradition, the main tourist attractions in Lombardy, apart from
Milan and the other main towns, are the great Alpine lakes and this detracts
from the scenic and artistic attractions of the mountains and plains. The area
of the lakes allows quiet holidays as well as presents opportunity for
glittering night out in one of Italy’s four casinos. The rest of the time can
be spend exploring old luxurious villas some of which date back to 13th century.
In addition to these it conserves a remarkable historical and artistic
heritage: from the spectacular prehistoric rock carvings of Valcamonica to the
great works of art such as the famous Duomo in Milan.
The beauty of their scenery and a mild climate have for centuries made
Lakes Como, Iseo, Garde and Maggiore the most popular of holiday choices.
Extolled by poets, musicians and painters alike, the great Pre Alpine lakes also
offer numerous sports activities, such as sailing, canoeing, windsurf and
waterskiing. In the valleys of the Lombard Alps there are many ski resorts, some
of international renown.
In summer, when the
snow melts away from green meadows and woods, the mountains of Lombardy become
an ideal solution for relaxing holidays, a place to rediscover ancient
traditions and wholesome gastronomical specialities and to engage in easy or
more demanding excursions along the well-marked paths leading to refuge huts,
lakes and panoramic mountainpeaks.
Visiting in winter time do not forget about mountains of the region which host
many tourist resorts offering an ample choice of excursions, mountaineering and
winter sports.
Lombardy however is not only an industrial area. Lombardy also offers many
cultural and artistic attractions.