#171-2016: Whoever…read moresaid that Milan has hardly any touristic value, I could come up with at least a dozen reasons, one of which would be Piazza Mercanti and it's amazing history. Though many people walk right past it without giving it a second glance, I (oftentimes) find myself slow down my speed just to admire bot the architecture and the history of this location. Right off of Piazza Duomo on your way to Via Dante (through Piazza Cordusio), this may look like a secondary square, but its historical value is quite impressive. Though time has managed the square to be reduced in size, Piazza Mercanti was used as a trade market, each section assigned to a special trade (from blacksmith to shoe makers, from crops to pots). It is to be believe to be the most ancient location of the renowned Oh Bej Oh Bej fair (later on relocated to S. Ambrogio and only recently assigned to Sforzesco Castle). If you will take your time to admire this square, you surely be met with different buildings having been erected in different times: Palazzo della Ragione was built in 1233; Palazzo dei Notai was built in Gothic style in the 15th century; Palazzo delle Scuole Palatine was built in baroque style in the 17th century. Palazzo dei Giureconsulti (now located in Via dei Mercanti) was built in 1561. This ability to combine different structures with different building decors is quite fascinating and truly appeals to my personal taste. The part I find the most creepy and yet fascinating is the pit in the middle of the old square where those accused of bankruptcy would have to be exposed and publicly punished (just wish this penitence was still in use). This pit was built in the 16th century and is sorrounded by 18th century pillars. It is to be believed that the square structure allows people to hear each other's voices from one corner to the perpendicular other corner. At times it works, other times it doesn't, but it is cute to see people try. So, next time you walk past this tiny square (which also allows you to enter Piazza Duomo's McDonald's, give this square a chance to impress you and make your inner photographer.

An impressive set of columns located in an eclectic area of the city. Worth the trip as there are…read moremultiple other sites to see and numerous cafes to have another or drink.

Oddly not a part of either of my walking tours, the Colonne di San Lorenzo has been here near Porta…read moreTicinese for 15 centuries and they're actually 200 years older than that, having been moved here in the 4th century after they existed elsewhere. Definitely worth a stop to admire their ancient grandeur if you are in the area. [Review 10671 overall, 439 of 2019.]

Porta Venezia, the East and West Toll buildings (1827), located in Piazza Oberdan, are beautiful…read moremonumental neoclassical structures. You cannot help but smile, when you see them. I don't know if it's their scale -- large but not overwhelming -- or the fact there are two buildings, a matched but not identical set, like oversized salt and pepper shakers. Or that they are square, and somehow more intimate because you can see all four sides. I guess Aristotle said it best: "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts." Five Neoclassical Stars.