The classic one-day cycling race in Italy often called the “Monument of Spring” is Milan–San Remo.
First held in 1907, the race runs from Milan to Sanremo in northwestern Italy. At roughly 298 kilometres, it is the longest major professional one-day race in modern European cycling and traditionally opens the season of the five Monuments.
Milan–San Remo is often described as a sprinters’ classic because much of its route is relatively flat. The late climbs of the Cipressa and Poggio, however, can split the field and give attackers a chance to escape before the finish. This makes the race unusually open to both fast finishers and strong breakaway riders.
A common mix-up is Lombardy, another Italian Monument. The Giro di Lombardia is held in autumn and is known more as a climbers’ classic, while Milan–San Remo is the celebrated spring race. Eddy Merckx holds the men’s record with seven victories.