We travelled to Milan with our 13-month-old Kidsetter. It was fun to be in one the world’s iconic fashion capitals. Housing some of the most famous Italian brands such as Valentino, Gucci, Versace, Prada, Armani and Dolce & Gabbana.
First stop was taking a stroll through Italy’s oldest active shopping mall ‘The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II’. A beautiful four-story double arcade in the centre of town, the Galleria is named after Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of the Kingdom of Italy. It was built in 1867 and remains to be a major landmark of Milan, Italy. Our Kidsetter looked perplexed as to why all these people are frozen in the shop windows……ahhh mannequins !
Next we had to investigate one of the most spectacular churches we’ve ever seen. Milan Cathedral took nearly 6 centuries to build. Yes really ! Commencing the build in 1386 and completed in 1965. It is the largest church in Italy, (including St. Peter’s Basilica in the State of Vatican City), the third largest in Europe and the fourth largest in the world. Personally, it was not the sheer size that impressed me however it was the elaborate façade and the forest of spires that seemed to touch the sky. There are 3,400 statues, 135 gargoyles and 700 figures that decorate Milan Duomo ! Our Kidsetter looked ‘unsure’ when he was a little too close for comfort with one of these unfriendly gargoyles.
We learnt you can have a unique and unforgettable experience by walking on the roof of the majestic gothic Cathedral. What a treat ! As it was a 330 step climb and our Kidsetter was only little we decided to take it in turns to walk the famous terrace. Absolutely stunning !
We love all things theatre and had to visit La Scala. The La Scala Museum showcased several rooms with artefacts, paintings, costumes and photographs of La Scala’s operas, composers and performers, evoking nostalgic memories of old ballet days.
Next we wandered Milan’s main upscale fashion district, quadrilatero della moda, which is home to the city’s most prestigious shopping streets (Via Monte Napoleone, Via della Spiga, Via Sant’Andrea, Via Manzoni and Corso Venezia). We had a blast. Entering one of my favourite designer’s houses Armani, the shop assistants weren’t busy with customers and decided to dress me up in as many gowns as I could handle. I’m sure given half a chance they would’ve done the same to our Kidsetter. Twirling around the store, making our Kidsetter laugh with the Italian shop assistants was a hoot !
The people of Milan are very warm and hospitable and love Kidsetters. Well worth adding to your next family adventures.
