The Sforza Castle in Milan, a landmark of Italian Renaissance history, has long been surrounded by whispers of secret passageways hidden beneath its fortified walls. For centuries, these tales were shrouded in mystery—until now. Recent technological advancements have confirmed the existence of underground tunnels that align with sketches and notes made by Leonardo da Vinci during his time at the castle.
The castle, built in 1450 after a previous fortress was destroyed during political turmoil, has been a symbol of power and culture for over five centuries. When Ludovico Sforza became Duke of Milan in 1494, he invited several renowned artists to decorate the castle, including Leonardo da Vinci. Among da Vinci’s many contributions were notations and drawings referencing secret passageways, including one that purportedly connected the castle to the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
This particular tunnel, believed to stretch nearly a kilometer, may have allowed Ludovico to visit the crypt of his late wife, Beatrice d’Este, in private. Beatrice tragically passed away during childbirth in 1497, and the Duke is said to have mourned her loss in solitude near her tomb.
Advanced Radar Technology Unveils Hidden Structures
Researchers from the Polytechnic Institute of Milan recently conducted a comprehensive scan of the area using ground-penetrating radar. This non-invasive technology sends electromagnetic waves into the ground, detecting variations in soil composition and identifying empty spaces such as tunnels and cavities.
“The goal is to create a digital twin of the Sforza Castle,” said Franco Guzzetti, a professor of geomatics at the institute. “This model will allow us to explore both the present structure and historical elements that have been hidden for centuries.”
The scans revealed multiple underground cavities just below the surface. While one of these aligns with da Vinci’s description of the route to the Basilica, others may have served strategic military functions, such as allowing soldiers to move undetected or reinforcing the castle’s defenses.
This discovery offers a glimpse into the ingenuity of Renaissance-era Milan and ensures the preservation of the Sforza Castle’s legacy for future generations. The castle, far more than an architectural monument, now stands as a dynamic repository of untold stories from its layered past.
By uncovering and studying these hidden passageways, researchers are breathing life into the narratives that shaped Milan’s history. As more layers are revealed, the castle’s significance as both a historical and cultural landmark continues to grow.
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