Teaser satisfied...finally

Remember the adorble teaser I posted last month?...More......

I wanted to share the wonderful day I had with my sweet friend, D., (thanks!) at the C.I.R.-Cento Ippico San Romanello, a lovely and well-kept riding stables on the outskirts of Milan, the owner of which gave me repeated verbal permission to take all the photos I wanted to take, and to put them on my blog...thanks, guys!

At the same time, I wanted to be able to tell you how to have permission to ride there, too. It didn't make sense to get you all charged up about the place, then to have you find out that riding, there, wouldn't be possible.

I'll tell you right up front...they're not set up either for English-speakers, or for non-Italians.

Why are those two things different, here?

There is the language problem, of course, but there's also a problem of bureaucracy...surprise, surprise.

I had to jump through lots of hoops to get this info (pun intended!). Finally, I spoke on the phone with a young woman of FISE-Federazione Italiana Sports Equine, who told me that the references to "Italians" in the rules for horseback riding in Italy apply to non-Italians, as well, and sent me back to the web site in Italian, by which time I was frantically busy with work, so making a summary of it in English for you had to wait...'til today! (All efforts have been made to make the summary in English as accurate as possible; consult the original or the entities in question for further information; using the information provided, you recognize that the translations are not official, that it is your responsibility to get official information, and that you do not hold me responsible in any way for the information, herein.)

For your safety and the safety of the horse and the other riders and horses, you can't just yell "tally ho!," and jump on the first horse to pass your way, like the Lone Ranger, or Zoro. You need some learning and practice, but don't be discouraged. There are promotional and temporary passes for agritourism and for riding at a school/stables that can be released directly by the Italian entity in question.

Let's look at what you'll need for "for fun" riding that needs a one-time promotional, a temporary, or an annual "A" type permit. Riding in competitions needs other certificates that have stricter rules, and if you're riding in competitions, you're already introduced into the world of horseback riding, so you don't need these hints. All that I have to say, here, is for those of you wanting to ride for fun, or maybe just to try it, once, to see what it's like.

To go horseback riding in Italy, you'll need two official medical certificates: (1) a certificate that you are of healthy and robust constitution, and (2) that you've had an anti-tetanus vaccination. If the person wanting to ride is handicapped, semi-blind, blind, or has Downs' syndrome, special medical exams and certificates are required. When minors are involved, written permission from the parent, or guardian, also is required. Unspoken, but obvious, you'll need a form of personal identification with a photo. Italians need to bring their "codice fiscale," which is the Italian equivalent of the American SSN-Social Security Number; whatever number your country uses to identify you beautiful you, bring that, too.

You'll need to have it all translated into Italian...don't use your neighbor's husband's cousin's secretary's nephew's brother-in-law's grandson's hamster! Look up official and reliable translation services, for the few pieces of paper you'll need, it won't be expensive.

Promotional permit: released by the local official entity for ONE promotional non-competition lesson; valid for 2 months, but can be issued only once per solar year; the acquisition of the full type "A" license in the same solar year as the promotional permission entitles the card-bearer to a 50% discount on the cost of the type "A" permit.

Temporary permit (the "horse tourism" permit has just about exactly the same requirements): released for equine tourism, or for non-competitive learning, by the local official entity, the agri-tourism, or the tourism entities, or by those belonging to FISE-Federazione Italiana Sport Equestri; the rules for the age of the rider are not clearly written, but presumably they mean "minimum" when specifying the age of 4, and there is no maximum age listed; for riders from 4 - 8 years of age calculated on the birthdays the permission is for mounting only ponies; valid for 60 days, it can be renewed during the solar year of emission.

Type "A": annual permit released for non-competitive riding by the local official association; for handicapped, minimum age 8 (no maximum listed); other specifications apply for other activities.

All the above apply to children, too. They can start riding for fun from the age of 4 and up, but may ride only ponies until they are 8.

These rules apply to all stables and agritourism entities belonging to FISE. There are at least a handful of stables in Milan. C.I.R. (closed Mondays) has classes for adults, youngsters and handicapped riders, all in Italian, of course. They have two outdoor riding areas, one with jumps,...

...and a large indoor riding area.

The clubhouse has a bar and a rustic loungeroom, and there are two shaded outdoor areas to rest and wait.

To go to C.I.R. (closed Mondays; they also have classes for handicapped riders, but everything is in Italian), get yourself to the MM1 De Angeli stop, and take the bus 72 or 72/ in the direction of the Cimitero Maggiore / Molino Dorino. Get off 17 stops later at the via Togni-Via Romanello stop, then walk 50 meters to the entrance.

Summertime classes and protective helmets, vests and boots are available. For those boarding their own horses, each stall entitles the holder to a saddle box.

Personally, I was impressed with how well they treated the animals and...

...how clean and nice the place was, and, chatting with some of the horse riders (or parents thereof), I learned that they were very happy about the professionalism and cleanliness of the place, too. For information about prices, contact C.I.R., directly.

So, there it is, the scoop on horseback riding in Milan and Italy for fun and/or for agritourism. As usual, but I'd rather mention it for clarity's sake: I get no kickbacks of any kind for presenting this info to you.

Enjoy!

Jazzy!

Like Jazz?

Events in Milan, and a couple of nearby cities.

Get ready, set, go!...More......

July 4, 5, 6: UnoGas (info in Italian), Sforza Castle, 9 P.M., entrance fee E. 15 (charity events to benefit the non-profit Toko Vato association in Madagascar that buys farm tools for poor families)

July 4, 10, 15, 18, 22, 25: Ritmo delle città (Rhythm of the cities; info in Italian), various sites in Milan. If you're in Arese or Legnano, there are more events listed. Even if you don't speak Italian, the page is clear, and it's easy to see where the things are and who will be singing and playing, at least.

Enjoy!

Chat with a Centurian this Sunday (Happy Father's Day!) at the Archeological Museum of Milan

I keep thinking, "How can they top this?!," they have so many great activities,...and then they do!

Super activity set for this Sunday (Happy Father's Day in the U.S.!) at the Archeological Museum of Milan: living history.

There will be regular changings of the guard and simulations of life in an ancient Roman military camp. Oh man, super fun! All...More......

...in Italian, but still fun for all the family!

It's the right place for it, too. The museum is nestled into part of the 8th century monastery that itself was nestled into the city's ancient Roman circus (really!). Parts of the ancient circus and walls are still in use! Wowee!

The official web site page (only in Italian...sigh) dedicated to this event even says that the display area has been enlarged, and that the walkway now goes through part of the ancient Roman walls. Super super cool. Can't wait to see it.

Where? Archeological Museum of Milan, Corso Magenta 15

When? from 9 A.M. to 5:30 P.M.

How much? the entrance ticket is...drum roll, please...a whopping Euro 2 (two!)

Sniff! Sniff! I can't go...working all day...but you go, then tell me all about it!

Enjoy!

Sunday, June 9...no cars allowed...think of it as an opportunity

Sunday is another "DomenicAspasso" ("SundayOnfoot") day in Milan. "Oh, brother!," I can hear those of you with cars say. Don't think of it as a bothersome restraint and imposition. Think of it as an opportunity. There will be lots to do.

First things first, though. The hours....More......

If you don't have any special conditions, or situations, you'll be on foot in Milan from 10 A.M. 'til 6 P.M. All roads in town are affected, so, if you're thinking of exploring the area around Milan, you'll have to get up and get out early. Or come back late.

Think you're special? The city thinks you are, too, and exempts you from the traffic block, if you:

--are in a car with a disabled card displayed,
--are in an electric car,
--are in a car-sharing car,
--are in a car dedicated to obviously fundamental public functions (police, carabinieri, fire fighters, ambulances, taxis, etc.).

Some routes to parking areas with designated bus and tram stops will be open.

Worried about spending a passle to get around? Fear not. ATM, Milan's public transportation management, offers a deal: whether you only move around in town with a regular price ticket, or come in with ATM transportation from an area needing a ticket supplement, once you've bought and validated that one ticket, you can use it to go anywhere on Milan's town and suburban ATM lines. All day.

It's not going to be just any ol' traffic blocking day, either.

Dedicated to re-use and recycling, the day offers lots of activities and fun...in Italian:

--Festival del Riuso e del Baratto (Festival of Reuse and Barter), Piazza Beccaria, 10:30 A.M. - 5:30 P.M. Organized by ONU-National Operators of Used Objects and Federambiente with the collaboration of AMSA (Milan's trash service) and officially recognized by the city of Milan, the opportunity to bring old objects still in good condition, but unneeded, to trade for something fun, or useful, is a good one.

--La potenza di Helios (The Power of Helios), Cascina Cuccagna, via Cuccagna, Porta Romana quarter. Activities Friday, Saturday and Sunday. On Sunday, from 11 A.M. to 9:30 P.M., an exhibit will be open, while from 4 - 6 P.M. there will be a workshop.

--Slalom Race, Parco Ravizza, via Brahams, via Console Marcello, 7 A.M. - 8 P.M., entrance free, inscription E. 50 (I'm guessing that means if you want to participate). An exhibition and competitive event inserted in the championship schedule of Slalom Skateboarding, ISSA.

--Mediolanum Cup Lacrosse, Centro Sportivo Saini, via Corelli 136, 9 A.M. - 6 P.M., entrance free; E. 550.00 (yes! FIVE HUNDRED AND FIFTY EUROS) for each team that wants to participate in this first international competition in Mediolanum, the ancient name for Milan, of Lacrosse, a game whose rules resemble those of hockey, but which is played on dry ground with a small triangular racket and a ball.

--Gioca&Impara con la Protezione Civile (Play&Learn with the representatives of Civil Protection), via Spallanzani 5, 9 A.M. - 6 P.M., free entrance and participation, while places last. Exhibit and distribution of free souvenirs (that Italians call "gadgets", so probably stuff such as key chains), and--at 11:45 A.M. and 4 P.M.--a special treasure hunt for kids from ages 6 to 12 to help them understand the profound value of volunteering to help others in need.

--BimbiAspasso (KidsOnfoot), a very varied program spread out all over town of colors, music and words for kids.

--4 zampe in fiera (4 paws in a trade fair), Parco Esposizione Novegro, via Novegro (Segrate, a suburb of Milan), 9 A.M. - 7 P.M. Saturday and Sunday, Entrance E. 10, reduced E. 7, kids 0-10 free. Pet trade fair in a suburb of Milan very near Linate. How to get there? First, you'll need to get the regular ATM ticket (URBANO) with a particular supplement (1/2 ZONA), which costs about E. 2.00. Next, go to Corso Europa (a main road in/out of Piazza San Babila), and take the bus "73/" (yes, there's a "/") going to Linate / S. Felicino. Get off at the 5th stop ("Novegro") AFTER leaving Linate (maybe another 10-15 minutes, I'm guesstimating). If you like all sorts of these trade fairs open to the public from animals and antiques to hobbies and who-knows-what, keep your eyes on this place.

--49° Torneo Avvenire, Tennis Club, via Feltre 33, 9 A.M. - 8 P.M. Part of the 2013 Tennis European Junior Tournament, category I, this chance for young tennis players to compete officially comes once a year to Milan thanks, in part, to the newspaper Avvenire. Free entrance for spectators, E. 40 for participating tennis players. Info: info@marcoberryonlus.org.

--Palazzi, chiese e grattacieli a Porta Nuova (Mansions, churches and skyscrapers in the Porta Nuova area), point-of-departure exit of the Galleria Vittoria Emmanuele onto Piazza della Scala at 9:30 A.M. Tours organized by the after-hours activity association for the city employees, the activity also is open to non-members. Put on your walking shoes, because you'll be on the road 'til about 1 P.M. E. 11 for members, E. 14 for non-members.

--Natura, arte e storia nei giardini di "Cilindro" (Nature, Art and History in the 'Top Hat' Gardens), Giardini Montanelli, point-of-departure, statue of Cavour in Piazza Cavour, at 10 A.M.; a botanical-themed walk through the park that will last until about noon. Participation free, the activity is sponsored by a couple of volunteer associations, including those who take care of the monuments in the Monumental Cemetery, like an open-air sculpture garden, itself worth a visit. Optional picnic at noon (fee-based).

--PicNic musicali in giardino (Musical picnic in the garden), Giardino di Montello, Viale Montello (in front of street address n. 6), 10 A.M. - 1:30 P.M. A description of the rarer plants and a musical exhibition is followed by a impromptu free-for-all...musicians can bring their own instruments, and play during the afternoon. The entrance fee info isn't very clear. One part says "free with donation" (already an oxymoron), and another says "free with inscription". If you don't want to wing it, contact the organizers, Giardini in Transito, giardiniintransito@gmail.com for more info.

--C'è vita intorno ai binari (There's life around the tracks), Train car deposit, Stazione Centrale, InfoPoint: via Ferrante Aporti, Magazzino 81 bis, 10 A.M. - 4 P.M. Varied activities for train buffs.

--La città cristiana (The Christian City), point-of-departure Piazza Sant'Eustorgio, the activities stretch from 10 A.M. to 5:30 P.M., with departures from the piazza from 10 to 10:30 A.M. ('Cult continuity from the 1st to the 5th centuries, in Italian) and from 3 to 3:30 P.M. (New faith images, in Italian). Organized by TCI-Touring Club of Italy. Free entrance, reservations 840.88.88.02.

--Scuola Steineriana (Steiner School), two activities: (1) artistic activities for kids in Italian, Piazza San Fedele, 10 A.M. - 6 P.M., (2) learning re-use, Piazza Oberdan, 10 A.M. - 5 P.M.

--Feste delle Ape e del MieleMilano (Festival of the Bees and MilanoHoney), Cascina Caldera, Parco delle Cave, via Caldera 65, 10 A.M. - 6 P.M. Dance and "0 kilometer" agriculture.

--Martesana (Martesana canal), Piazza Piccoli Martiri, 10 A.M. - 8 P.M. Like history? This might be one of the best choices for you: an exploration of the history of one of the most picturesque old bridges of Milan and the Martesana canal (Naviglio). Free.

--Biciclettata alla scoperta dei Navigli di Milano (A bike ride to get to know Milan's canals), point-of-departure Piazza Cadorna, a 7 km ride (about 2 hours) to get to know the history and art of Milan's canals. First departure, meet at 10:15 A.M.; second departure, meet at 4:15 P.M. Signing up is obligatory, costs E. 1 (one), and must be finished by noon, so keep an eye on your watches. For more info, contatto@multiverso.it, 389.6797311.

--Area P. Milano incontra la poesia (Area P. Milan encounters poetry), Palazzo Marino, Piazza della Scala, beginning at 10:30 A.M. Free entrance, but you'll need the "invitation" that you can get from the Urban Center in the Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele just inside the entrance from the Piazza della Scala.

--Knitta la lana, scalda la vita (Knit yarn, warm life), Piazza San Fedele, 10:30 A.M. - 1 P.M., a get-together for knitting lovers to bring their own stuff, and knit together in this beautiful historic piazza. Event organized by Gomitolo Rosa

--Arco dell'Alleanza (Ark of the Alliance), Parco Sempione, 10:30 A.M. - 5 P.M., wellness and meditation in the beautiful surroundings of the park. Participation is "free"...but a donation of E. 15 is "requested" to cover the costs of the materials provided, including a mat

--Tutti in tram (Everyone in the tram), departures from Piazza Castello beginning at 10:30 A.M. and ending at 5 P.M., departures from Piazza Fontana beginning at 11 A.M. and ending at 5:30 P.M. Clowns, games and fun for kids. Participation free while seating lasts, info@improntateatro.it

--Palazzo Bambino (Kiddie Mansion), courtyard of Palazzo Marino, Piazza della Scala, 10:30 A.M. - 6:30 P.M., entrance free. Fun, games, stories, jugglers and etc., all in medieval costumes.

--Festa del biberon (Festival of the baby bottle), via Tonnezza, 11:30 A.M. - 7:30 P.M., a festival organized by the Centro Ambrosiano di aiuto alla vita to awaken our sensibilities regarding pregnant women and minors in trouble.

--InfoPoint Sorgenia for bicyclists is being inaugurated at noon; via Viviana 12. Free maps of the bike lanes are being distributed, and it will be possible to try electric bikes with assisted pedaling.

--AggregArte (AggregateArt), Giardini Bellisario, Piazza Udine, 2-6 P.M., a VERY rich interactive program to share urban art and art experiences, beginning with placing flowers in a permanent group sculpture through theater and musical workshops for youngsters...all in Italian, of course. Participation free.

--Storie antiche e contemporanee (Ancient and contemporary histories), an afternoon bike ride in the Valle dei Monaci, point-of-departure, the bike rack at the San Donato stop of the MM3 (yellow line), about 12 km long (to which another 4 must be added for those needing to return to San Donato). About 95% of the trip is on asphalted city roads. On the weekends, transporting bikes in the metro is free and can be done at any time (according to the info provided by the organizers, La stazione delle biciclette). Insurance cost Euro 1 (one), entrance to the mulino (wind mill), Euro 2.50. If you want to go, you'll need to sign up by 6 P.M. on June 6th, contact: info@lastazionedellebiciclette.com.

--Il trucco del sorriso (Smile Makeup/The Trick of Smiles), Giardini pubblici di Porta Venezia, on the side of Corso di Porta Venezia, 2 - 7 P.M., sponsored by Azul Onlus helping children in difficulty. For kids ages 3 and older. Participation free.

--Sunday Bike Messenger Tour by The Bagel Factory, city bike tour with brunch (E. 15) to learn the ins-and-outs and secrets of an urban bike messenger and a clever advertising and public service event by this chain that offers (finally) really good and authentic tasting bagels in Milan. Corso di Porta Vittoria, 46, 2:30 - 6 P.M. For more info: info@thebagelfactory.it

--PopolandoMi Culture (Populating me/Milan with Culture), a musical walk from via Padova 69 to the amphiteater of the Martesana followed by a concert of ethnic music in a setting providing bio food and ethically responsible object stands. Departure: 2:30 P.M. The grounds will be open until 10 P.M. Entrance free.

--Musica in famiglia (Music in the family), Piazza Mercanti, from 3 P.M. Organized for kids 12 and under who want to perform in public, this event is part of the MITO (Milano-Torino / Mythical) annual musical series that will be offering musical events until the 21st of June. Entrance free (nothing about whom to contact for more info)

--In campo per la vita (On the playing field for life), Arena Civica Gianni Brera, viale Byron 2, 3 - 6:30 P.M. An event pitting actors, musicians and cabaret artists against soccer players in this soccer game dedicated to raising awareness of organ donation and to support AIDO, the Italian organization for organ donation. Free entrance (but I'm sure they'd be happy for donations)

That's all, folks! I'm tired just transcribing it all!

Enjoy!

Planes, trains, and...strikes foreseen for June and July

Had a really lovely day on Tuesday, so want to write up that very do-able and enjoyable day trip for you ASAP. In the meantime, better safe than sorry, here is the news to-date from the Ministry of Public Transportation about the upcoming strikes in June and July....More......

Friday, June 14: Alitalia, Linate and Malpensa
Strikes, some for four hours, others for 24 hours, of the airport, onboard and related personnel.

Friday, June 14: Local transportation
24 hour strike with local hour variations (hint: in Milan, it's usually from 8:30 / 8:45 A.M. 'til 3 P.M., then from 6 P.M. 'til the end of service)

Thursday, July 18: EasyJet and Blue Panorama
24-hour strikes of the stewards and stewardesses

I hope that that's all that pops up for June and July.

Like we really needed strikes with the already difficult economic situation in Italy and Europe.

I can hardly say my usual, "Enjoy!," can I?

Local public transportation strike, today...yikes!

Going to work, today?...get out the door, quickly...there's a local public transportation strike, today. Milan's hours are from 8:30 A.M. until 3 P.M., then from 6 P.M. 'til the end of service. Hours in other cities vary.

More on the other strikes, later.

Gotta run!

June 2...Happy Birthday, Italy

It's almost the weekend, again! What to do?! Check these out:...More......

First and foremost...Happy Birthday to the Italian Republic voted into existence the year after the close of WWII and remembered every year on the 2nd of June, the first day of the vote. In honor of this important anniversary, the Province of Milan coordinates its rotating hours opening the mansion in which it has been housed since 1935. Free tours in Italian in the afternoon (the last one leaves at 6 P.M.). See the web page for more info. Curious about Italy's (moving and beautiful) official constitution (based on a concept that rings loudly today: the right to work)? Head to the official page of the Republic of Italy that has been partially translated into English. You'll find yourself with a long biography of our current president, Napolitano. Links to the official documents (in English!) are found on the right.

Opera fan?! Verdi's "Aida" is playing (8:30 P.M.) at the Teatro San Babila until the 2nd of June. Tickets reasonably priced at E. 25 - E. 35.

Got a sweet tooth? The ice cream festival in the Piazza del Duomo lasts until June 2.

Like classic commercials? Head out to Wow Spazio Fumetto for the last days celebrating "Carosello" (Carousel), the beloved series running for two decades.

Tastes run more to cartoons and manga? The exhibit, running at the Rotonda of the Besana until the 9th of June, is for you: Naruto. Not so fond of cartoons and manga? Keep your eyes open for the calendar of exhibits in this space. It's a deconsecrated church, and worth visiting just to experience the interior and the grounds, once dedicated to those deceased at the historic central hospital, the Ospedale Maggiore, until the functions were transferred to the then new Ospedale Maggiore called Niguarda.

Like creating things of your own, or collecting old bits and pieces? The hobbyist fair near the Bocconi university is for you.

More interested in design? The Triennale, dedicated to design from its very foundation in the 1930s, has a few interesting exhibits running for quite a few months more. To cite just one, how about the one dedicated to the influence of design.

That'll keep you busy! Enjoy!

Because it's been a May like that

It's almost June, and it seems like early spring, if not even autumn. Lots of rain and chilly temps with a few spectacularly beautiful, sunny and blue days sprinkled here and there. Yesterday was rainy and cold, though today will be sunny and spring-y. More pics to come. In the meantime, what was there to do?...More......


Go to the Sforza Castle, of course!



Apparently, lots of others had decided on the Sforza Castle, too. I counted TWELVE tourist busses in front of the castle. I'm very glad that tourists are coming to Milan, there's lots to appreciate and love, here, but the busses are a bad sign: "bite and run away" (mordi e fuggi) tourism. It weighs on the local system of foot and street traffic, and brings very little revenue into town: a few euros for an entrance fee (*IF* they go inside the museums, entering the castle is free-of-charge), a slice of pizza (if that), and back on the bus, no overnights in hotels, no real meals in restaurants, little or no local shopping, even less tourism in places that charge for entering (just how are these places to pay the bills without the help of an entrance fee, anyway?), thanks so much, goodbye.


My first step was to a small exhibit about to close in an almost hidden corner of the castle, then a happy distraction and detour to the Visconti rooms (under the courtyard with the pond) for...



...the small, but interesting collections of ancient local Celtic (and you thought studs were a recent fashion trend!) and...



...ancient imported Egyptian objects (this relatively new restyling is crisp, offers info in Italian and English, and is fairly convenient, though some things could have been placed on lower pedestals--I'm tall, and even I couldn't see inside--or have mirrors above).



WARNING: get your museum ticket here at the main ticket desk BEFORE going down all those stairs, or you'll just have to trudge back up, again, before entering. (HINT to the museum: why not post a little sign, "Get your ticket first!"...such a simple way to avoid angering and alienating your visitors.)


This picture shows the beginning of the main museum path focusing on art in Milan and Lombardy beginning with the ancient Roman period (a few sarcophaghi and a mosaic fragment...most of the ancient Roman art of Milan is in the equally lovely Archaeological Museum in corso Magenta), passing quickly to the early medieval period, proceeding at a nice clip through medieval up to late Renaissance beauty, thoughts and aspirations ending with the periods' fears: arms and armor. But I've done that part lots of times (and it's so lovely, I'll do it many more), so today's goal was another: majolica.



Not for the faint of heart, or handicapped. The entire complex of the castle isn't handicap accessible...it is a medieval castle, after all...but this part is one of the most difficult: steep narrow stairs.


Only to hear that the majolica collection was closed for the day...too little funds, too few personnel, "It will be open, tomorrow, ma'am"...so beware, things you come to see just might be closed with no notice, go with the flow, it's Italy, forewarned is forearmed. So, after all those stairs, what to see, anyway?



The early 16th century tapestries known as "Trivulzio" after the name of the (turncoat) Italian general, who catapulted to fame and fortune by giving a hand to the invading French. Then...



...there are all of the antique musical instruments and some 15th century Lombard frescoes (the latter always photograph poorly without flash). An extra plus? A free concert of Baroque music of Venice (really quite heavenly) and the announcement of a concert of medieval Lombard music same time (4 P.M.), same place (Sforza Castla, Sala della Balla...Room of the Ball...it's where the duke and courtiers played ball indoors, when the weather was bad!), on Saturday the 8th of June.


Hope you can make it, I'm going for sure!



Back down the stairs that allow a picturesque view of the castle's large and...


...ducal courtyards, then off to see a friend.


Want to go to the castle and its museums? See the website in English (yeah!) for general info (nothing about temporary exhibits, unfortunately, but better than nothing!).


Enjoy!

What's there to do in the days to come?

What to do? What to do? What to do?...More......

Don't forget the Palio of Legnano and the food activities, mentioned earlier. Not up your alley? Here are just a few more ideas to keep your soul (and the souls of your children) fed and satisfied with enriching and beautiful activities:

CODEX, Pinacoteca Ambrosiana, Piazza Pio XI, 2 (a stone's throw from the Duomo), until June 30, 2013
Precious illuminations of the Bible by Chagall.
Hours and times (the site gives you the possibility to ask for an English version...but it's not working....)

SILOGRAFIE..., an exhibit of the gorgeous prints from Italian magazines of the end of the 19th century, Castello Sforzesco, until May 26
The official web site doesn't have any info about the exhibit, but--wonder of wonders!--there is a working English version of the general info, at least.

GIRO IN GIRO..., a exploration of form and figure from early modern art to today at the Garage Milano, via A. Maiocchi, 5/7, until May 26
Yet, again, another website without an English version.

'80 years of archives at the Triennale,' Viale Alemagna, 6 (Parco Sempione), until May 26
The Triennale, constructed during the years of The Consensus to highlight Italian design, lets us glimpse into its historic archives. The website in English, as often happens, gives only permanent information, but it's better than nothing if you need to find out something about hours. (May I say how much I really HATE black background websites? It's not 'cool,' folks, it's just DEPRESSING and HARD TO READ. Thank you for your kind attention, we now return you to the regular programming.)

BAG, an exploration of contemporary Italian artists, Art Gallery of the Bocconi University, via Sarfatti 25, until May 31
The "art events" page turns up blank...sigh...but at least they do have an international version (mistakes in English, aside...another sigh....) with a helpful page about how to get there.

Expo Days, all over town, until June 2
Finally, the 2015 Expo is visibly starting to grind to a slow roll with activities planned until the beginning of June.
One good point? A web site in English; here's the activity page for Expo Days.

The Tre Crocefissi (Three Crosses) of Foppa, an important Lombard artist open to the most popular currents of the Renaissance, Museo Diocesano, Corso di Porta Ticinese, 95, until June 2
Easily reached using any of the public transportation lines that run down the corso, this wonderful museum that often has very good temporary exhibits delights us, again, this time with an object borrowed from the Carrera Museum in Bergamo, temporarily closed for restoration.
Info times on the very reduced (but at least present) page in English. Try the "Milan is Tourism" English language website, instead.

Desire for Freedom, art after 1945 in Europe, Palazzo Reale, Piazza del Duomo, until June 2
The web site in English for the exhibit will give you all the info you need. The "iconic" image chosen looks pretty creepy to me, but at least it's intriguing. (May I say, again, how much I really HATE black web site backgrounds? Thank you for listening, again, I'll get off my soapbox, now.)

Oro di Wagner (Wagner's gold), Spazio Oberdan, Piazza Oberdan, until 23 June
Like lyric opera? The always interesting Spazio Oberdan offers a series of films (in Italian and probably in German with subtitles, I'm guessing) and encounters (in Italian, I'm guessing) about Wagner. Website...sigh...in Italian.

There, that ought to keep you busy for a few days!

Enjoy!

P.S., I snapped this photo on the 6th of October, 2012 at about 2 P.M.

Sunday...what to do?! Living history at Morimondo, of course!

Just outside Milan is a lovely church and monastic compound in the town called Morimondo.

Today, you can go there for a bit of fun living history! Got kids? Perfect! Take 'em along. Spark in them the love for learning and history, as something vibrant for The Now.

It will be one of the best inheritances that you could ever give them...More......

Founded by the Cistercian monks of St. Bernard in 1136, with its greatest period of splendor in the 13th and 14th centuries,the monks were of fundamental importance for the...



...reclaiming of marshy land as useful agricultural terrain.


The abbey began slipping into decadence in the early 15th century. In the mid 16th century, St. Charles Borromeo took away most of the vast land and great wealth it had accumulated (giving it all to the Ospedale Maggiore / "Principal Hospital" of Milan), and finally it was deconsecrated in 1799 during the winds of reform accompanying the young general, Napoleon Bonaparte. Monks returned in 1952.


And don't skip a visit to the lovely church dedicated to Mary. Begun in 1182, it was completed only by the end of the 13th century due to fighting with the local clergy (who saw their power and economic resources draining away from their own pockets and towards the monks).


The little porch (called a pronao) was added in 1736.

Here are the activities planned for Sunday, May 19, 2013:

10:30 A.M., Mass in the (little) Abbey

11:30 A.M., procession from the church to the fields for the blessing of the banners and the shooting off of the guns

3 P.M., behind the Abbey, "Hunting for the Knight", a game between the damsels and knights

6 P.M., the re-enactment of the Battle of Casorate

Traditional nibbles and sips, some based on medieval recipes, are available (one presumes, for purchase).

Because of the high traffic expected, today, the organizers suggest parking in the industrial area of Caselle, where a "navetta" (shuttle bus) will start going every half hour between Caselle and the compound at 2 P.M., with the last one from Morimondo to Caselle at 6:45 P.M.

Morimondo
Piazza Abbazia
Morimondo
tel. 02.9496.1919
fondazione@abbaziamorimondo.it
http://www.comune.morimondo.mi.it

Enjoy!

(P.S., I snapped these pictures on thye 28th of July, 2004.)

What to do?

A few ideas to lift your spirits, rest and relax...More......

--May 17-25, Milano Food Week, talks about food, wines and techniques, demonstrations, restaurant appointments and street food (at least this last is in English!) on an Italian-only (sigh) web site with a day-by-day list of activities. Look up a few of your favorite words (wine = vino!), and taste away.

--May 19, Per i corti e cortili, a day of food fun for all the family with visits to working farms complete with furry donkeys and honking geese for the kiddies (and maybe you, too) and 0 kilometer food fun. The site's only in Italian, but click on the itinerary ("14 percorsi") list for place names and addresses.

--May 20-2 June, Taste of Milan, if your a foodie, you're on a roll! (Sorry! Couldn't resist!), and, this time, the web site's also in English.

--May 26, the Palio of Legnano, heard of the famous horse race in the piazza at Siena?, well, there's a similar (costumed!) race in Legnano, a small city near Milan! There is a series of activities starting as early as May 17 that lead up to the Palio, so head to the web site to check out the whole schedule...alas and alack, only in Italian! Tickets for the uncovered observation field ("campo sportivo Giovanni Mari") are E. 10 for adults, E. 5 for kids. If you want to sit in the best seats, the most expensive seats are E. 70 a piece.

There, that ought to keep you busy, at least for a few days!

Enjoy!

(N.B., the photo is of food, but I snapped it at the Rho-Pero convention center a few months ago...just to be clear!)

Tomorrow, Sunday, May 12, no car day...walk to your mom's, it's Mother's Day in the USA

Sunday, from 10 A.M. to 6 P.M., if you don't qualify for an exemption (electric car, car-sharing, driving public transportation, disabled, etc.), you'll be on foot. (The next "no cars" day in Milan is June 9.)

Why not go see your mom?...It's Mother's Day in the U.S.A.

Enjoy!

Happy and sad: good prices on books in English, but The English Bookshop is closing down

Both sad and good news, everyone!

(RIASSUNTO IN ITALIANO: libri in inglese per adulti e per bambini a prezzi scontati; dal 13 maggio al 30 giugno al The English Bookshop, v. sotto)

The sad news is that Peter Panton’s English Bookshop, an “institution” in Milan, is going out of business…too many of us want e-books, now!

This leads us to the good news…great sales on books of all kinds for adults and kids!...More......

From the 13th of May to the 30th of June, there will be great prices to be had.

So, below you’ll find the info that you’ll need, if you’re going to go.

I already have my list of books. Let me know what you buy, O.K.? I’m curious!

Warmly, Star Meyer

(Just a reminder, I get no money for this information, nor any kickback of any kind…I’m just trying to send you info about English stuff that you might like and enjoy!)



THE ENGLISH BOOKSHOP - MILANO

TOTAL CLEARANCE book sale!
Up to 50% discount!
The sale starts at 15:30 on Monday, May 13th and ends June 30th.
See you there!

THE ENGLISH BOOKSHOP
Via L. Mascheroni, 12 - Corner of Via L. Ariosto (the address is on Mascheroni, but the entrance is on Ariosto!)
20145 Milano, Italy
MM CONCILIAZIONE
Tel. 024694468
http://www.englishbookshop.it/

Teaser

May Day! May Day!

The May Day celebrations will cross through downtown Milan, and public transportation service will be affected. Furthermore, the service also will be limited in time, so if you want to follow the parades, or just be out and about, here is some handy info to help you manage your day:...More......

Metro line 1: last train leaves anywhere from shortly before 7 P.M. to about 7:30 P.M. (depending on the point of departure and the destination)

Metro line 2: last train leaves anywhere from shortly before 7 P.M. to about 7:20 P.M. (depending on the point of departure and the destination)

Metro line 3: last train leaves anywhere from shortly before 7 P.M. to about 7:20 P.M. (depending on the point of departure and the destination)

Metro line 5: last train leaves anywhere from about 7:30 P.M. to about 7:45 P.M. (depending on the point of departure and the destination)

Beginning at 9 A.M. two parades will cross downtown in the morning:

(1) Departing from the Bastioni (ex-city walls) of Porta Venezia, it will go in Corso Porta Venezia, Piazza San Babila, Corso Matteotti, Piazza Meda, via Catena, Largo Mattioli, via Case Rotte and end in Piazza Scala.

(2) Departing from the Bastioni (ex-city walls) of Porta Venezia, it will go in Corso Porta Venezia, Piazza San Babila, Largo Toscanini, Corso Europa, Largo Bersaglieri, via Larga, and end in Piazza Santo Stefano.

Affected bus and tram lines: 1-9-12-15-23-27 e i bus 54-60-61-73-94.

Beginning at 2 P.M., another parade will cross downtown: departing from Piazza XXIV Maggio, it will continue in Porta Ticinese, Via De Amicis, Piazza Resistenza Partigiana, Via Cesare Correnti, Via Torino, Via Orefici, Piazza Cordusio, Via Broletto, Via Ponte Vetero, Via Mercato, Via Tivoli, Largo Greppi, Via Lanza, Piazza Castello, Viale Gadio, Via Legnano, Piazza Lega Lombarda, Piazzale Biancamano, Bastioni Porta Volta, Viale Crispi, Piazza XXV Aprile, Bastioni Porta Nuova, Piazza Principessa Clotilde, Via Galilei, Piazza San Giochimo, and end in Piazza della Liberazione.

Affected bus and tram lines: 1-3-4-9-12-14-16-27-33 e i bus 43-57-82-94.

Enjoy!