Milan canal district

I had not ventured to the canal district in my previous visits to Milan. It is a far walk from the city centre. And to be honest not an attractive one. I was rather nervous as to what I was bringing Mike to. Nearby it just looks horribly down at heel and covered in graffiti. But finally one gets to the canal basin and one sees what the fuss is about. Very much the place people come in the evening. Mostly a lot younger folk than us. But definitely a lively trendy spot.

We found a place that did canal trips (not an exciting voyage of discovery - just up the canal and back) but was nice enough. And as we had a while to wait for the next sailing we had a very agreeable beer or two.

 The boat trip was completed a little too early for dinner so time for a cocktail or two.

And finally dinner at well rated restaurant by teh canal. We had no complaints over our choice.

Quite a long walk back, and after a quick bar stopover, a chance to see Milan at night. The cathedral lights up beautifully.

Also striking is Milan station.

 

Milan castle

Today was a day to be spent in Milan. And less hectic than our previous days. Really just one tourist sight to see, the castle area.

The castle includes a number of museums, starting with an early sculpture gallery.

The armouries.

There is a furniture collection cheek by jowl with the fine art galleries.

A devil automaton

Restoration work carried out while you watch

I rather liked a small exhibition of modern glass

And if you are wondering what this little lot is, it is a hunting/butchering kit, so you can quickly dismember the game you have just hunted down. Top quality equipment.

You finish with an extensive musical instrument collection. Including these eclectic guitars.

And after finishing with the castle there is a nice park behind culminating in an impressive arch.

And lastly, in a side building there is a Michelangelo museum containing just one, unfinished sculpture, a pieta