Palazzo Lombardia

The regional government complex in Porta Nuova — a swirl of flowing glass forms by Pei Cobb Freed wrapped around a covered public plaza, anchored by a tower that briefly ranked among Italy's tallest. The sinuous lower volumes contrast with the sheer tower, and on occasional open days the upper floors offer some of the best panoramic views in Milan. It's part of the wave of contemporary towers that reshaped the city's northern skyline. For visitors, the public plaza is open year-round, and catching one of the view days rewards with a sweeping look over a Milan that has grown dramatically upward.