It is interesting geographically, with areas of outstanding natural beauty, with lakes rivers and awe inspiring mountains. The past has been turbulent. Many of its art treasures and architectural masterpieces were executed under the aegis of the Visconti. Lombardy is also the most developed part of Italy. It is important both economically and commercially. Its cities Bergamo, Pavia, Mantova, Cremona, Milan and Brescia are sophisticated, modern and cosmopolitan. Cremona is one of the most beautiful cities, with lovely palaces and squares. The Capital, Milan is home to design and the Scala Opera House. The excursion one should always take from Milan is to the lakes, the most romantic feature of Northern Italy, the most well known of which are Como, Garda and Maggiore.