Metroweb is the owner of the largest fiber optic network in Milan and
Lombardy, the most widespread Metropolitan network in Europe with
cables that reach over 5,000 km in total length. The company was
established in 1997, when AEM set-up Citytel specifically to develop
and manage local telecommunication networks. In 1998 Citytel obtained
its license from the Ministry of Communications and signed an
agreement with the Milan City Council which involved the construction of
new sections of the network. In 1999 AEM signed an agreement with e.
Biscom Group to develop broadband telecommunication services.
Citytel changed its name to Metroweb and focused its operations on
the supply of dark fiber networks. AEM transferred its networks over
to Metroweb, and e.Biscom acquired a 33% stake in Metroweb with a
consequent increase in share capital. In 2003 AEM purchased the
remainder 33% stake in Metroweb from FastWeb (formerly e.Biscom
Group), becoming its sole shareholder. In 2006 the investment company
Stirling Square Capital Partners, together with some Company directors,
purchased a 76.5% stake in Metroweb from AEM, currently known as
‘A2A’, which still holds the remaining 23.5%.