Lombardy

Overview

Lombardy stands as the most populated and wealthiest region in Italy, located in the northern part of the country. It shares borders with Switzerland and the Italian regions of Emilia-Romagna, Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto, and Piedmont. With a total area of 23,861 square kilometres and a population of 9.4 million, Lombardy plays a significant role in Italy’s cultural, economic, and social landscape.

The Capital: Milan

Milan, the capital of Lombardy, is renowned as Italy’s second most popular tourist destination. The city is a national trendsetter, attracting the brightest minds and the most elegant individuals. Recognised as the fashion and design capital of Italy, Milan is home to many of the world’s most famous labels. Key landmarks in the city include the majestic Duomo, Sforza Castle, La Scala opera house, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and the iconic San Siro stadium. In addition, Milan is celebrated for housing Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, 'The Last Supper'.

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Provinces of Lombardy

Lombardy is divided into the following provinces: Bergamo, Brescia, Como, Cremona, Lecco, Lodi, Mantova, Milano, Pavia, Sondrio, and Varese. Each province contributes to the region's diverse character and rich traditions.

Geography and Natural Features

The region is characterised by three distinct zones: mountains, hills, and plains. Piz Zupo, located in the Bernina Range of the Alps, is Lombardy’s highest peak, reaching 3,996 metres. Below the Alpine mountain ranges lie the Alpine foothills, which are home to the famous Italian lakes. From west to east, these include Lake Maggiore, Lake Lugano, Lake Como, Lake Iseo, Lake Idro, and Lake Garda—the largest lake in Italy.

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Cuisine and Local Specialties

Lombardy offers an exquisite locavore dining experience. Antipasti selections feature Bresaola, an air-dried fillet of beef from Valtellina, as well as Salami Mantovano, a lightly garlicky and crumbly variety often enjoyed in risotto. Salami Milanese, a fine-grained pork salami, is another regional delight. The famous Risotto Milanese is a staple, complemented by a variety of local pastas such as Agnolini, Bigoli, Cappelloni, Casoncei, Gnocchi, Marubini, Tortelli Cremaschi, and Tortelli di Zucca.

Cheeses of Lombardy

Lombardy boasts an exceptional range and variety of cheeses. The region is home to five Slow Cheese presidia: Agri di Valtorta, Bagoss di Bagolino, Fatuli della Val Saviore, Pannerone, and Stracchino Valli Oribiche. Other notable cheeses from Lombardy include Gorgonzola and Provolone, among many others.

Wine Regions

Lombardy features six prominent wine-producing areas, with Valtellina and Brescia standing out as some of the best. The region produces a variety of distinguished wines, including Bonarda Oltrepo Pavese, Botticino, Franciacorta, Oltrepo Pavese Spumante, and Rosso di Valtellina.

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