Monza is a city known primarily to motorsport fans. It is home to one of the world's most famous Formula 1 circuits. However, the city has much more to offer, and its center is full of historic buildings.
The city was founded by the Romans under the name of Modicia, and during the migration of peoples it was taken over by the Lombards. During the Middle Ages it was one of the favorite residences of Lombardy rulers and a thriving cultural and scientific center.
The greatest attraction and monument of Monza is the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, in the treasury of which is kept the Lombard crown made at the turn of the 5th and 6th centuries. According to legend, its armband was made of a nail from the Cross of Jesus.
There are also other valuable monuments in the city. These include The 13th century old town hall of Arengario, the gothic church of Santa Maria in Strada or the baroque Palace of Justice. Next to the cathedral, the largest historic building is the Royal Palace in Monza, built by the Habsburgs in the second half of the 18th century. The residence is surrounded by a large park and now houses exhibition halls, museums and various public institutions.
