The five most extensive, classical, and prestigious day races in professional cycling are all lined up together under the heading of 'Monuments', each with their own appeal and and characteristics. The Tour of Flanders and Paris – Roubaix have the cobbles. Liege Bastogne Liege has the tradition and editions with terrible weather. Lombardia is the season closer and the race of the falling leaves.
Milan Sanremo is the race to the sea and is the longest on the pro race calendar. With its 299km length and rich history (first edition dating from 1907), the Milan Sanremo is the first Monument of each season and features two climbs on the Cipressa and Poggio, the latter being the most anticipated as daring riders attack a better finish on the plunge to the finish line.
The race is taking place between the ancient cities of Milan and Sanremo.
Milan is a historic city with strenghts in the fields of art, commerce, design, entertainment, fashion, tourism and many others. The metropolis served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire in late antiquity. The original of the famous ‘The Last Supper’ painting is located in the dining room of the ancient Santa Maria delle Grazie Church.
Sanremo is the capital town of the Italian Riviera of Flowers. Its artistic heritage, permeated by a typically Ligurian shyness, is still largely unknown. Known in ancient times as Matuzia, as a reminder of the palaces built in the west side of the city by Caio Matuzio, or as a reminder of the popular legend of Matuta Goddess, God of the Sea and Dawn. Famous people from princes, to writers came to San Remo to bask in the deep blue sea and the intense scent of its flora.
