ILAN Once Italy's largest city, a position taken over by Rome, Milan remains the financial and economic hub. It has the nation's largest concentration of industry, but is famous as the world's leading center for design and fashion. Among Italy's most sophisticated cities, Milan offers the country's best shopping, the most diverse nightclubs and a varied cuisine from around the country. Milan is one of the most active cities and the pioneer of industrialization of Italy. The fact that it is situated on the junction of all major motorways in the centre of Po Valley had made the city the center of economic activities. Milan is linked to all parts of Europe by subways passing through Alps which is the starting point of the Sole Autobahn. Milan is a cultural centre. Among its historical and architectural riches are the Brera Palace, built in the 17th century; the Sam Simpliciano Church adorning the Garibaldi Boulevard; La Scala, one of the most important opera buildings in the world; the Santa Marie delle Grazie Monastery where Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper" is found; the Duomo, Europe's third largest cathedral; and the Sforza Castle.

Milano Duomo

Sforza Castle  The large fortified complex built by Francesco Sforza in the middle of the 15th century on 14th century pre-existent foundations, became the place of residence of Galeazzo Maria Sforza who decorated it. The Spanish fortifications, dating from the 17th century, transformed the complex into a strong citadel with imposing outside ramparts. They were demolished by Napoleon's army. Today it houses the important Town Collections of Ancient Art, of Applied Art and the Archaeological and Numismatic Collections.

• Milan Museums