The Galleria is an expansive outdoor mall with very high end fashion shops and lovely restaurants. There is a spot in the center of the galleria where you may see people forming a line. The famous legend centers on the mosaic of a bull set into the floor at the intersection of the arcade. According to tradition, if you place your right heel on the bull’s genitals and spin around three times, it brings good luck. The mosaic represents the coat of arms of Turin (which features a bull). Over time, Milanese locals turned it into a playful superstition—part good-luck ritual, part gentle poke at their northern rivals in Turin. The exact origin is fuzzy, but it’s been practiced for decades, and visitors from all over the world join in.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
City: Milan
Region: Lombardy
About the Region:
Lombardy (Lombardia in Italian) is one of Italy’s most dynamic and diverse regions, located in the northern part of the country. It stretches from the peaks of the Alps in the north to the fertile plains of the Po Valley in the south, offering a remarkable variety of landscapes. The region is a hub of culture, history, and modern industry, blending centuries-old traditions with contemporary urban life.
The regional capital, Milan, is internationally renowned as a global fashion and design capital, as well as a center for finance, commerce, and the arts. Milan’s Duomo, La Scala opera house, and the Santa Maria delle Grazie, home of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, are major draws for visitors. Beyond Milan, Lombardy is dotted with charming cities such as Bergamo, Brescia, and Mantua, each rich in history, architecture, and local culinary specialties.
Nature lovers are drawn to Lombardy’s stunning lakes and mountains. Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore are famous for their dramatic scenery, elegant villas, and quaint lakeside towns, while the Alpine region offers skiing, hiking, and picturesque villages. Lombardy is also known for its gastronomic traditions, including creamy risotto alla Milanese, hearty cheeses, and exquisite wines from Franciacorta.
The region combines modern efficiency with historical charm, making it a fascinating destination for travelers. Whether exploring bustling cities, serene lakes, or alpine peaks, Lombardy offers a rich and varied experience that captures the heart of northern Italy.