Milan Travel Guide - History

The first known inhabitation dates to the Bronze Age. By the 4th century BC, the Gauls had settled here and about 100 years later, the Romans conquered the area known at the time as ‘Mediolanum,’ making it an autonomous province under Rome’s control. During the Imperial Age, its importance became significant, as merchants would stop on their way to the northern part of the Italian Peninsula.

By the middle of the 4th century AD, Milan had become second only to Rome as a powerhouse. Christianity had spread rapidly here, with Milan becoming a leading centre of the Christian faith. Today, reminders of Roman times can be found in areas such as Piazza Cordusio.

During the 15th century, power passed from the Viscontis to the Sforzas and trade, agriculture and various crafts developed importance. Important buildings added during this time included the Lazzaretto and Castello Sforzesco, among others. A major work with historic importance is Da Vinci's ‘The Last Supper’, completed in 1498 as a fresco for the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Milan found itself in the middle of the ongoing battles between France and Austria. The Sforza family’s rule was weakened and the city was finally reduced in importance to a province that was ruled by the Spanish. Early in the 17th century, the Black Death decimated the population, and the city tumbled into economic decline. Early in the 18th century, control of the city changed once again, this time from the Spanish to the Hapsburgs.

In the 19th century, the Austrians took control of Milan once again and the people of the city were not pleased about this, rising up against their rule in 1848 leading to a great deal of bloodshed. The Austrians were forced out and the Kingdom of Italy came into being in 1861.

Many of the buildings in the city centre date to the early 20th century, when areas were rebuilt in a style not so lovingly known ‘Fascist minimalist’.