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Going Behind-the-Scenes in Milan

On the opening night of our Milan trip, our hostess Martina Mondadori Sartogo, who is the editor of Cabana magazine, invited Indagare founder Melissa Biggs Bradley and our group to see Milan as she does—through the eyes of an insider. “This is a city that lives behind closed doors,” Martina said. “Many of its greatest treasures and pleasures are hidden in private homes to be shared only with close friends and family.” And while the city has long been famous for its sophisticated fashion and design scenes, almost all visitors feel at a slight remove, sensing a secretive culture. As Martina explained, “Some of the most renowned designers of the 20th century lived and worked in Milan, helping to create that design city environment that one experiences today with Salone del Mobile, the legendary design fair.” Thanks to her generous spirit, we were able to meet her friends and their families in their homes as well as see hidden gems by Renzo Mongiardino, Piero Portaluppi and Gio Ponti and meet some of her favorite designers, dealers and collectors. There were many moments of beauty from seeing Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper and the Palazzo Crespi and Villa Necchi, where I Am Love was filmed, to our day on Lake Como. It all combined to deliver a sense of Milan that felt more like a revelation in the hands of an old friend than a simple discovery. “What I love about Milan is that it is both romantic and realistic at the same time,” said one traveler, capturing beautifully what I think many felt. That combination will certainly provide memories to return to for inspiration and appreciation.

 Here are some of her and the participants' photos from the trip. For help planning your trip, contact our Bookings Team.

For more Milan travel trips, read the following articles:

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