Milan is one of the shopping capitals of the world. Via Montenapoleone and the Quadrilatero della Moda – literally the Golden Quadrilateral – are entirely dedicated to luxury shopping. It’s here that the most important Italian and international fashion designers launch their luxurious creations.
Via Montenapoleone is the heart of the famous Quadrilatero della Moda, just a stone’s throw from the Duomo, and one of the four most expensive shopping streets of Milan, together with Via Manzoni, Via della Spiga and Corso Venezia. Via Montenapoleone itself generates 25% of the entire city’s international shopping turnover.
A few centuries ago, in medieval times, before being enveloped by the glamour of fashion, Via Montenapoleone and its adjoining streets formed a district of convents, cloisters and orchards. A particularly noteworthy street was (and still is) Via della Spiga, an oasis of tranquillity and unbridled luxury. Traces of the past convents, orchards and cloisters can still be seen in the beautiful inner courtyards of the most exclusive “palazzi”, built at the beginning of the 18th century by local aristocrats, and in the names of several streets. The origin of the name “Monte Napoleone” is quite interesting and dates back to the time when Napoleon Bonaparte reopened a “monte” – a pawn shop – on this street.
Via Montenapoleone is always surrounded by a sparkling atmosphere and during fashion weeks it comes alive with events, vernissages, fashion shows and is populated by thousands of curious people eager to experience the irresistible glamour of this street. For a true Milanese tasting experience, stop over at Cova, a famous Milanese pastry shop with an old-fashioned atmosphere where you can treat yourself to a great cappuccino and delicious pastries.
Let yourself be surrounded by luxury!
