Milan serves as the regional capital of Lombardy in northern Italy and acts as the seat of the Metropolitan City of Milan. It is recognized as Italy's economic capital, with its metropolitan area accounting for approximately 20% of the country's GDP. The city functions as a major international center for industry, finance, science, communications, fashion, art, and tourism, holding an Alpha classification by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network.

Founded around 590 BC by a Celtic tribe known as the Insubres, the settlement was originally named Medhelanon before being Latinized to Mediolanum by the Romans after their conquest in 222 BC. It served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire from 284 to 402 AD and later became a wealthy Duchy that drove the Renaissance. Milan also played a crucial role in the Italian Enlightenment and the reunification of the Kingdom of Italy before leading the nation's industrial and financial development from the 19th century onwards.

The city is defined by its blend of historical grandeur and modern architecture, featuring landmarks such as the Gothic Duomo, the La Scala opera house, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. Notable sites include the Brera art gallery, the Pirelli tower, the San Siro stadium, and the Castello Sforzesco. The urban center has grown around its original Celtic nucleus, preserving much of its history while rebuilding into a cosmopolitan business capital after significant destruction during World War II.

As a global fashion capital, Milan attracts visitors for its spring and autumn fairs, luxury hotels, and vibrant nightlife. It hosts major international events like Milan Fashion Week and the Milan Furniture Fair, alongside educational institutions that account for 11% of Italy's enrolled students. The city is home to two successful football teams, AC Milan and Internazionale Milano, and co-hosted the Winter Olympic and Paralympic games in 2026.

Milan has a population of 1,354,196 as of 2023, though its wider metropolitan area is estimated at 6.55 million. It boasts the largest GDP and highest per-capita GDP of any Italian province, hosting the Borsa Italiana stock exchange and numerous national corporations. The city experiences rainy, grey, and foggy weather, with its historic center offering elegant shops and parks amidst a bustling metropolis.