John Milton traveled extensively around Europe
After earning his M.A., Milton studied independently for the following six years before embarking on some trips. In addition to studying literature, theology, philosophy, rhetoric, physics, and other subjects, he studied a great deal of both contemporary and classical literature. He also became fluent in many languages, both classical and modern. He continued to create poetry during this time, and two mosques, Arcades, and Comus were ordered by wealthy patrons.
Milton set out on his journey to Europe in May 1638. Before continuing on to Italy, he passed through France, making a stop in Paris. Touring in Italy and France. The journey was a thorough study tour that added actual experience to John Milton's theories. While in Europe, he had encounters with the leading thinkers and intellectuals of the day, including Galileo the astronomer. Defensio Secunda, his book, has the only description of his travels.
He came to Florence in July 1683, where the city's intellectuals and artists welcomed him. When he came to Rome many months later, he was welcomed as well because of his ties and reputation in Florence. In 1639, after learning of the outbreak of the civil war, he made his way back to England. He had meant to travel to Sicily and Greece, but after a friend died and tensions rose, he decided to return to England in the summer of 1639.
He allegedly met a lot of significant and influential artists when he was abroad. One of these meetings was with Gallileo, who is credited with having a significant influence on him. An interesting fact about John Milton is that in his most well-known book, Paradise Lost, he would subsequently make reference to Galileo.
