Notwithstanding the glam and colour of Europe's finest 'ready-to-wear' fashion scene, Milan may seem pretty grey at times. But if you know where to go there are oases of incredible art and imagination from museums, galleries and permanent exhibitions.
First and above all, the 'The Last Supper' at the Cenacolo Vinciano, Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie, 2. The masterpiece by Leonardo in the small convent dates from 1497 is compulsory viewing and compulsory booking as we discovered to our cost.
You can't just turn up and wait in the queue, you have to book in advance. Make sure you do it at least a month before online or telephone +39 02 89421146. Frustrating? You bet.
Fans of Caravaggio, Canaletto, Tiziano, Botticelli, Raffaello, Tintoretto and friends will be more than satisfied with a morning in 'La Pinacoteca Ambrosiana', Piazza Pio XI and 'La Pinacoteca di Brera', via Brera 28.
The Museo Bagatti Valsecchi in via Santo Spirito,10 is a new one to us and houses amazing objects from the home of a 19th century noble Milanese family. And these guys were very, very rich.
Colour won't be lacking at the 'Assoc. Biblioteca Tremelloni del Tessile e Della Moda'. Here are housed catalogues, press releases, images, technology etc. all dedicated to the world of fashion and textiles.
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