Understanding galaxy formation and evolution stands as a fundamental objective in modern scientific research. However, a comprehensive observational and theoretical framework that can account for the vast range of properties observed in galaxies throughout the Universe remains elusive. In this context, the Milky Way is special, as it provides the unique opportunity to investigate complex galaxy assembly processes by studying its resolved stellar populations. Nowadays, knowledge about all Galactic components, from the halo to the disc(s) and bulge, is undergoing a profound revolution thanks to the ESA’s astrometric mission Gaia. Gaia has provided detailed measurements of stellar positions, motions, and parallax for over a billion stars, offering a comprehensive map of our galaxy. Complementing this, spectroscopic data from surveys such as APOGEE, GALAH, GES, and others provide us with stellar parameters, chemical abundances, ages and velocities. These are vital for understanding the mutual interconnection between different Galactic components. In this talk, I aim to demonstrate what we have learned about the Milky Way using the synergy between large observational data sets, various modeling techniques and state-of-the-art galaxy formation simulations. This integrated approach has led to an in-depth understanding of the disc mass assembly history, the impact of the bar and spiral arms, the formation and present-day structure of the bulge, and the build-up of the Milky Way's stellar halo. Finally, I will discuss how our detailed knowledge about the Milky Way can be used to fill the gaps in our picture of galactic evolution in general. Those unable to attend the colloquium in person are invited to participate online through Zoom (Meeting ID: 942 0262 2849, passcode 792771) using the link: https://eu02web.zoom-x.de/j/94202622849?pwd=dGlPQXBiUytzY1M2UE5oUDRhbzNOZz09 During his visit to Heidelberg, Dr Khoperskov will be available for meetings by arrangement with his host Dr Guiglion Guillaume (guiglion@mpia.de).