Milano

At one point in time it was said that, 'all roads lead to Rome.'

As such, Rome continues to represent the "old" Italy, but Milan is hailed as a representative of the "new" Italy. While Milan may serve as the face of modern Italy, the city was carefully expanded- while retaining and honoring culture through preserving elements of the past. What makes this more impressive is that Milan was able to responsibly respect its tradition without compromising its fresh, elegant, and innovative vision of the future. Style just oozes from the Milanese.

Old and new have a home in Milan, and neither appear out of place. I have always found the harmony or precarious balance between two conflicting notions fascinating. Milan embodies that dynamic, and she is clad in fashionable garb.

I didn't get to spend more than the short part of an afternoon walking around Milan. In fact, it was more of a transit point en route to a client meeting than anything else. Did I see a few sites? Yes. Did I enjoy a nice meal and some good wine and amazing espresso? Yes. Would I have liked to have more time to explore? Absolutely. But much like the models on the runway, I had to keep on walking.

Duomo

Piazza del Duomo is a fine example of the meshing of old and new. Not more than 100 yards from one of the largest cathedrals in the world is what is said to be the world's oldest shopping mall. I also found the placement of large advertisements on historical buildings to be a bit appalling at first, but somehow I guess it all just works.

Old likes to stare at New, especially if it is in tight stylish jeans.

Perhaps without a home, but not void of some style and a sympathetic companion.

Walking around Italy really personally drove home the point that American history even at its earliest stages is considered quite modern by most of the world's standards. In the US, something 200 years old is thought to be ancient. Most people in Europe and Asia wouldn't bat an eye for something that isn't at least a few thousand years old.

I should have realized this earlier, but I finally get it. 

And now onward on my journey to discover the more "traditional" aspects of Italy...