Lombardy

Italy > Lombardy

For anyone considering emigrating to Italy, Lombardy offers numerous advantages—from top-notch career opportunities at international companies to a high quality of life in both charming urban centers and tranquil rural areas. In this article, we explore the diverse benefits of Lombardy and explain why it is considered one of Italy’s best regions for purchasing property and establishing a permanent home.

Geography and population: an overview of Lombardy

Lombardy spans an area of approximately 23,863 square kilometers and, with a population of 10.0 million (as of 2022), is Italy’s most populous region. Located in the north of the country, it borders Switzerland as well as the Italian regions of Piedmont, Veneto, Trentino-South Tyrol, and Emilia-Romagna. The landscape of Lombardy is incredibly diverse, ranging from the Alps in the north to the Po Valley in the south.

One of the region’s standout features is its picturesque lakes. Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore are among Italy’s most famous bodies of water and are popular tourist destinations. Here, life can be savored to the fullest—whether you’re strolling along scenic lakeside promenades, enjoying water sports, or exploring the little villages and towns that line the shores.

The heart of the Italian economy

Lombardy is Italy’s economic powerhouse and one of Europe’s most significant commercial regions. In particular, the capital city of Milan is renowned for its role as a financial and trade center. Home to the Italian Stock Exchange and the headquarters of numerous international companies, Milan has earned its reputation as Italy’s “economic metropolis.”

Milan is also world-renowned as a fashion capital. Milan Fashion Week attracts thousands of designers, models, and fashion enthusiasts from around the globe every year. In addition to fashion, Lombardy is celebrated for its design industry and mechanical engineering. Companies in the fields of electronics, chemistry, and automotive manufacturing also contribute to the region’s economic strength.

But it’s not just industry—agriculture also plays an important role in Lombardy. The region is celebrated for its high-quality wines, including the red wines from the Lake Garda area, as well as for its cheese production. gorgonzola cheese, produced here, enjoys international acclaim.

History and culture: a region with a rich heritage

Lombardy is not just an economic powerhouse; it’s also a region steeped in history and culture. The cities of Lombardy—including Bergamo, Brescia, Mantua, and Pavia—offer both visitors and residents stunning historical landmarks and cultural treasures.

Milan, the capital of Lombardy, is also renowned for its cultural highlights. The Milan Cathedral, one of the largest and most impressive Gothic cathedrals in the world, is an iconic landmark of the city. Equally noteworthy is Teatro alla Scala, one of the most famous opera houses globally, where countless international artists have graced the stage.

Lombardy is also home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Notably, the town of Crespi d’Adda is a well-preserved 19th-century workers’ settlement that stands as a unique example of the industrial architecture of its time.

Attractions and leisure activities in Lombardy

Lombardy offers an impressive range of leisure opportunities, spanning from cultural experiences to outdoor activities. The region is known for its natural beauty, particularly its renowned lakes. Lake Como, for example, with its spectacular setting between mountains and water, is a popular destination for sailors, hikers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Another highlight is Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy. Here, you can not only explore picturesque lakeside towns like Sirmione or Desenzano del Garda, but also enjoy a range of water sports or unwind in the famous thermal baths that the region is renowned for.

For mountain lovers, the Alps in northern Lombardy offer exceptional opportunities for hiking, skiing, and climbing. In particular, the Valtellina Valley is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring breathtaking landscapes that support outdoor activities all year round.

Culinary specialties: the rich tapestry of flavors in Lombardy

The cuisine of Lombardy is rich in flavors and celebrated for its diversity. The region is renowned for its risotto, particularly risotto alla milanese, which is enhanced with saffron. Another famous dish is ossobuco, a braised veal shank that is often served alongside risotto.

Lombardy is also renowned for its cheese production. In addition to the previously mentioned gorgonzola, the region is home to grana padano and taleggio. Both cheeses have a long tradition and are a staple of Lombard cuisine.

Another culinary specialty is the region’s sausages, including salame di Varzi and bresaola. These air-dried meat products are traditionally produced in the Alpine areas of Lombardy and are a true delicacy.

Real estate and quality of life in Lombardy

Quality of life in Lombardy is high thanks to its robust economy, well-developed infrastructure, and diverse leisure opportunities. Especially in cities like Milan, Bergamo, and Brescia, you’ll enjoy all the modern conveniences along with a wealth of cultural offerings.

Anyone considering purchasing property in Lombardy will discover a huge number of opportunities. In Milan, property prices tend to be on the higher side due to strong demand and the city’s economic significance. However, there are plenty of affordable alternatives throughout Lombardy, especially in the smaller towns and rural areas.

Especially along the lakes and in the Alps, you’ll find attractive real estate opportunities ideal for those seeking peace and nature without sacrificing proximity to the region’s economic hubs. Cities like Como, Lecco, and Varenna offer the perfect starting point for a lakeside lifestyle, while their closeness to Milan ensures excellent access to the city’s infrastructure.

To sum up: Lombardy, a region full of opportunities and quality of life

Lombardy is a region renowned not only for its economic power but also for its cultural and natural treasures. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant energy of Milan or the serene beauty of the lakes, Lombardy offers something for everyone. For those considering a life in Italy, Lombardy stands out as one of the most attractive regions to buy property and begin a new chapter. The blend of career opportunities, cultural offerings, and a high quality of life makes Lombardy an ideal destination for expats and property buyers alike.

Lombardy consists of eleven provinces and the metropolitan city of Milan, which we would like to introduce to you here.

• Bergamo – Brief info with map available here: BERGAMO
• Brescia – Brief info with map available here: BRESCIA
• Como – Brief info with map available here: COMO
• Cremona – Brief info with map available here: CREMONA
• Lecco – Brief info with map available here: LECCO
• Lodi – Brief info with map available here: LODI
• Mantua – Brief info with map available here: MANTUA
• Milan – Brief info with map available here: MILAN
• Monza and Brianza – Brief info with map available here: MONZA AND BRIANZA
• Pavia – Brief info with map available here: PAVIA
• Sondrio – Brief info with map available here: SONDRIO
• Varese – Brief info with map available here: VARESE

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Lombardy means ‘land of the Lombards’. The Lombards occupied a large part of the peninsula after the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 4th century AD. Today, Lombardy is one of the strongest economic regions in Europe. Milan is known worldwide for fashion and design.

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