Notes on Lombardia-Lombardy

Collection of notes what to see and eat in the Italian region Lombardia-Lombardy with cities like Milan, Mantova-Mantua and Bergamo.

The Italian region of Lombardia-Lombardy exude wealth, style and orderliness. The cities are big and businesslike, while the landscape is marked by great geographical diversity.  It ranges from the majestic Alps in the north to a string of enthralling lakes and the literally plain plain surrounding the Po river.

The name of the region refers to the barbarian Longobard tribes. They invaded the province in the 5th century. Their descendants remained in power for almost a millennium, but eventually Lombardia-Lombardy was divided up among some of Europe’s most powerful families.

Foodwise Lombardia-Lombardy relies heavily on butter, cream and cheese. Gorgonzola, Taleggio, Mascarpone, Robiola and Bel Paese are produced here. Milan is famous for their risotto, cutlets, osso buco and panettone. And there are lots of local specialities like sbrisolona from Mantua, mostarda from Cremona and Amaretto liqueur from Saronno.