Very close to the Duomo stands the oldest district of Milano, traditionally named "Cinque Vie": this area got its name because of its function as the confluence of a number of streets: Via Santa Marta, Via del Bollo, Via Bocchetto, Via Santa Maria Fulcorina and Via Santa Maria Podone. This was already a dynamic crossroads of trade in Roman and Medieval times.
The district still keeps its commercial relevance today, providing an impressive concentration of galleries, craft and antique shops, ateliers and artist studios, and shops dedicated to clothing and contemporary design as well, with a marked emphasis on research. This district of the city, with a definitely radical-chic vibe, is ideal for a peaceful walk away from the traffic of the thoroughfares.
