Milan Embraces Olympic Buzz and Thrills on Opening Eve

Milan is preparing for the excitement of the Olympic Games as the city gears up for the opening ceremony of the Milan Cortina Winter Games. Just days before the event, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. Initially, rain left the streets desolate, but a sunny Thursday brought life and joy back to Milan.

Milan’s Transformation Ahead of the Olympics

On Thursday morning, the city buzzed with energy as crowds gathered. Olympic ticket holders, staff, shoppers, and journalists filled the streets. Many were eager to witness the Olympic torch, which would be carried through the city later that day.

Gloria Vergara, a makeup artist from Spain, shared her excitement about the Olympic spirit in the air. Vergara is part of a team providing makeup for athletes and entertainers, including renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, scheduled to perform during the opening ceremony at Milan’s iconic San Siro stadium on Friday evening.

Festivities in the City Center

In the heart of the city, Piazza del Duomo buzzed with activity. The massive square surrounding Milan’s stunning Gothic cathedral was filled with people soaking in the Olympic atmosphere. Workers were finalizing the platform for the torch lighting, adding to the anticipation of the ceremonies.

• Venue: San Siro Stadium
• Event Date: Friday evening

Nearby, historic stores prepared for the influx of visitors. Francesco Pettinaroli, who runs one of Milan’s oldest businesses, displayed watercolour prints from the 1956 Cortina Olympics. These prints captured the essence of athletes in motion.

Local Art and Culture Shine

Antonio Miniaci, owner of the Miart art gallery, received deliveries of Olympic-themed oil paintings. Created by local artist Giuseppe Di Fede, the artworks feature hockey players and figure skaters, marking this vibrant contribution to the Olympic spirit. Miniaci, recognizing the increased global attention on Milan, expressed hope that the Olympics would boost local culture and art sales.

The main shopping street, Via Montenapoleone, welcomed an array of international shoppers. Famed for its luxury boutiques, the street hosts top brands including Chanel, Gucci, and Tiffany. Shop manager Natalia Novosad noted that visitors were drawn not only by the Olympics but also by Milan’s renowned fashion and food culture.

• High-end Brands:
  • Chanel
  • Gucci
  • Tiffany
  • Rolex
  • Loro Piana
  • Fendi

Retired accountant Wilma Cheung from Hong Kong affirmed that while her primary reason for visiting was the Olympics, she couldn’t resist exploring the shopping scene in Milan.

As Milan embraces the Olympic buzz, the city showcases its rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene, enhancing the overall excitement of the Winter Games.