Milan: City overview

Adjust font size:

Rome may have a greater historical and spiritual heritage; Florence may have the artistic riches of the Renaissance; but Milan is Italy's modern heart, a city that pulses wealth and style. It's little wonder that the classic Italian Armani suit originated here. After all, Milan owes its fortune to bankers, industrialists and businessmen rather than artists or emperors. Located on the Lombardy plain, Milan has more in common with the mercantile cities of northern Europe than the Mediterranean towns and villages of the Italian heel and its dedication to material pursuits can make it a difficult place to warm to -- especially if you're under-dressed. Even at its most creative -- in the ateliers and studios of the city's fashion industry -- Milan is brashly commercial. Forget the Duomo; Milan's real shrines are its galerias, cathedrals to a credit card-melting cult of consumerism. Still, the Milanese are Italian enough to know that good looks and money aren't worth anything unless accessorized by good food and wine in abundance and a large slice of la Dolce Vita.

Security ramped up at airports after terrorism attempt Passengers flying into the United States from abroad should expect additional security measures at U.S. and international airports a day after a passenger d ...

---

• Security increased at airports worldwide
• Charlie Sheen arrested in domestic dispute
• Source: Suspect's dad had contacted U.S.
• Hollywood couples who make it work
• Sources: Suspect son of banker, UK-educated

• Protesters clash with police in Iran
• Florida football coach Meyers resigns
• Nations mark 2004 tsunami tragedy
• Child abduction ends after chase
• Charlie Sheen charged with assault

• Talkin' 'Icky Thump' blues (1:40)
• 'Why you treat yourself bad?' (3:15)
• Soviet culture returns (3:47)
• Unseemly rap lyrics targeted (3:29)
• Now In The News