Lombardy

Lombardy or Lombardia, region, northern Italy, comprising the provinces of Bergamo, Brescia, Como, Cremona, Mantua (Mantova), Milan, Pavia, Sondrio, and Varese. Sheep and cattle are raised in the mountains and valleys of northern Lombardy (Lombardia), and fruit is grown in the hilly sections. Grains are cultivated in the fertile plain of the Po River valley to the south. Lombardy is the major commercial and industrial region of Italy, and the manufacture of textiles—especially silk—is the most important industry of the region. Hydroelectric power, iron and steel, automobiles, railroad equipment, chemicals, and apparel are also produced. Milan is the regional capital and chief manufacturing city; other important cities include Pavia and Brescia. In northern and eastern Lombardy, beautiful lakes, including Como, Maggiore, and Garda, have inspired a thriving tourist industry.

Ancient Lombardy was part of the Roman Empire in the 3rd century bc. From the 6th to the 8th century ad it was ruled by the Lombards, from whom its name is derived. By the mid-15th century the city-state had become a duchy. Lombardy came under the successive rule of Spain, Austria, France, and Sardinia before becoming part of the kingdom of Italy in 1861. Area, 23,861 sq km (9,213 sq mi); population 9,393,092 (2005 estimate).