Historical shops, the map of shops
Culture. Promoted by American Express, it alerts tourists and citizens to service sector activities where work, tradition and history have remained islands to be preserved
by Enrico Netti
3' min read
3' min read
It is one of those guides that every Milanese and tourist visiting the Lombard capital should have in order to grasp the essence of some historic shops, i.e. those that have been in business for at least 50 years, that preserve original furnishing elements and are of great architectural and urban interest, in the city centre. This is the guide "Treasures of the neighbourhood - The centre of Milan seen from its historic shops" by American Express, produced in collaboration with Confesercenti Milano, the Italian Touring Club and the support of the Milan section of the Associazione Botteghe storiche di Lombardia.
The result is a thoughtful map of these businesses that represent islands of history and tradition in a globalised world that is the same at all latitudes. Those shown are shops linked to the territory and the luckiest have managed to keep their original location.
"The historic shops are a point of reference for Milan: they tell the story of how the city, consumption, tastes and habits of the Milanese have changed over time," recalls Giuseppe Sala, mayor of the metropolis. "For this reason, the one proposed by American Express with Confesercenti Milano is a non-trivial guide, because by following the stories of the shops that have contributed to making Milan the city it is today, it draws new itineraries of discovery that enhance the centre and the neighbourhoods.
The guide is divided into four sections: City explorer, Timeless traveller, Lifestyle passionate, Stylish professional, inspired by digital creators Erica Pasquetto and Nicola Fabris, known as the Onderoaders, and Alberto Soiatti, who contributed to the project.
The first section is for tourists visiting the city and wanting to discover its traditions and authenticity. The City explorer chapter helps residents discover products and services with authentic experiences, Lifestyle passionate is built around the premium offer and ends with Stylish professional mix of craftsmanship and elegance.
