Milano and a Bit of Culture

We have now spent 2 days in this city and I am trying to figure out why it isn't captivating me.  I've come to the conclusion that it might be because there are no iconic sights here like in London, Paris, Berlin and Rome.  Aside from the Duomo and La Scala, I haven't recognized a single famous building - now maybe that is just me.  What we have recognized are the famous and no so famous names of fashion:  Prada, Versace, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Giorgio Armani, Jimmy Choo, Chanel, Dior and on and on it goes.  Sunday, we walked down a pedestrian street where they all were - closed but there.  Yesterday in the rain and occasional hail, we did two of the three Hop On/Hop Off bus tours.  Even with good weather, I doubt I would have taken many photos.  Here are some I've taken as we've walked and bus-toured around the city:
 

The famous Duomo

Statue of Garibaldi - every northern Italian town, city or village seems to have one

Milan Headquarters for Michael Kors

 

Inside the Galleria

A "not so anonymous" but ardent shopper!

After doing some shopping this morning along the Via Buenos Aires, we decided to take a tour of La Scala which included the theater itself and the museum.  When we visited the boxes, we were lucky enough to see a rehearsal underway.  I think it was of Der Rosenkavalier.  It seemed strange to see everyone singing opera in jeans and running shoes.  The museum contained an interesting collection of pianos (or similar instruments) as well as lots of portraits.  Not being student of classical music, I am afraid much of it was a bit lost on me but I did recognize the portraits of Maria Callas and Rudolf Nureyev.  After our tour, the heat (what a change from yesterday!) had pretty much done us in so we took the metro back to our hotel.

Lunch at il Salotto di Milano in Galleria Victoria Emanuele II

Even dogs get served drinks in restaurants here!

La Scala

Inside the Theatre Reception Area

This and the following are photos of some of the musical instruments in the museum

Portrait of Maria Callas

Portrait of Rudolf Nureyev

A few observations of Milan:  I would estimate that more than 50% of the Italians here smoke.  It is really astounding and such a change from back home and even in other parts of Europe.  Also, there is currently a huge police presence.  I'm not sure if it is because the UEFA Cup final is being held here on Saturday or if there is something else going on but I can tell you they are everywhere - on the streets, at the subway entrances and on the platforms, and wandering through the galleria and arcades.  At least one feels safe with them around.  Lastly, I have seen more "beautiful" people in this city than anywhere, including the Cote d'Azur.  Both young and old are dressed "to the nines" (whatever that means) and I never knew how skinny really skinny jeans could be - both on men and women!  The tourists are pretty easy to spot, especially North Americans, schlepping around in capris and trainers.  It has been in interesting visit and I am glad I saw a bit of this city but, as I said earlier, I am still waiting for this city to captivate me.  The question is whether or not I will give it another chance.  We did eat at a lovely restaurant last evening and I am going to go back there tomorrow on my own for my last evening here.  Nawal heads home via Amsterdam tomorrow midday.  Next up for me:  Switzerland and visits with my friends there.