Founded around 400 BC by the Insubres Gauls, a Celtic population that settled on the banks of the Po River, the city came under Roman control in 222 BC. The Romans named it "Mediolanum." Due to its strategic position, which allowed for the monitoring of barbarian movements, it became the capital of the Western Roman Empire. Following the collapse of the Western Roman Empire, its position exposed it to barbarian invasions, during which it suffered multiple sacks and devastations.

In the late Middle Ages, under the Visconti family, Milan experienced a period of great development, establishing itself as one of the most influential cities in Europe. It was dominated by the Spanish and later by the Austrians, thanks to whom it became a prominent cultural and artistic center. It was occupied by Napoleon, who made it the capital of his Napoleonic Kingdom of Italy. Subsequently, it became a hub for rebellious uprisings, serving as the main headquarters for the patriotic movements that aimed for the unification of Italy.