One Of Those Stories

The ceiling of the "crypt" where the Verdi tombs were located.

I apologize for the style this post is written in: the "all over the place" style. It was such a great experience that I put it down the way it happened so I wouldn't leave anything out.

While we were in Milan, passing through my old neighborhood we came across the Casa di Riposo per Musicisti (Resting Home for Retired Musicians) where Giuseppe Verdi's tomb is. One would guess that it being in my neighborhood would mean that I knew what it was. But alas, for some reason I always thought it was some sort of an embassy, or consulate or an official government building. This retirement home for old musicians was built and founded by Giuseppe Verdi himself. Later on, as the story will evolve, we will find out that Verdi had asked that the retirement home started functioning as one after he died, for he would be embarrassed to be thanked by his fellow musicians. The house was completed in 1899 but remained closed until 1901 when Giuseppe Verdi had died. 

As we were standing outside the building, trying to figure out if we could go in or not, this short, surprisingly quirky and willing old man popped up and told us that we could go in and see the tomb. We went in and a short-haired angry lady adamantly pointed out that we could only see the tomb and that we were not allowed to go anywhere else.

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Milano: Familiar Feeling

A few months ago, I was called to take an impromptu decision on traveling. I don't do that much. Ever, actually. The destination sort of begged me to book that ticket. Milan was calling. Again. After nine whole years! 

So, long story short, last week I was in Milan. I do travel, given the opportunity, but I am not what one would call an avid traveler. This time the territory was kind of familiar. Not a lot has changed since I left Milan, except perhaps the construction of a huge expo center and the ongoing construction of a group of skyscrapers near the center of the city. Most of the places I went to, the cafes, and restaurants in my old neighborhood remained the same, again, with the exception of my block's Blockbuster; that's gone. 

I don't know if it's the fact that I am older (improved as I like to put it) and more experienced now, I don't know if it's the fact that my Italian is much better than it used to be or the fact that my life feels quite in-place right now, but I really felt "at home" as much of an exaggeration as it may seem. I was able to do everything without -personally- needing to use anything else but Italian, the people no longer seemed to be distant and cold, as I remembered them. It felt the way it should feel: familiar. 

I was in great company (thank you Mouskou sisters!) and we had a great time enjoying "gli aperitivi" and all the delicious dishes and happy hour buffets (we'll leave that thick pizza of the first night out of the list). And yes, the idea of a mozzarella bar was genius! Well, some shopping did occur as well and some serious visual stimulation and inspiration came along in the process. 

Also, imagine my surprise when I found out that one of my Korean classmates from 2002 was in town too for business! 

Now that low fare airlines are a reality here too, I'll definitely, absolutely visit Milan more. Not just for fun. Hint Hint.

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10 Corso Como + Gap

10 Corso Como is one of the hottest art/fashion/shopping places in Milan. Despite the fact that I've only been there a couple of times when I was in Milan, 10 Corso Como is one of the places that remain engrained so very intensely in my mind.

This fall Gap and 10 Corso Como will be launching a collaborative line of t-shirts, sweatshirts and canvas bags with the signature pattern of 10CC as well as prints by Kris Ruhs selected by Carla Sozzani (of the Carla Sozzani Gallery at 10 Corso Como). The line will be available at the Corso Como shop this fall.

(via)