Beneath the historic walls of Milan’s Sforza Castle lies a hidden network of underground passages, recently brought to light through advanced surveying technologies. Long-rumored to exist, these secret tunnels not only reveal the ingenuity of Renaissance architecture but may also hold ties to one of history’s greatest minds—Leonardo da Vinci.
To uncover these subterranean corridors, researchers from Politecnico di Milano utilized Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) to detect anomalies below the surface. GPR was instrumental in identifying the structures’ locations without disrupting the castle’s historic fabric, particularly in areas once occupied by the outer defensive wall, or “Ghirlanda.” Coupled with laser scanning, the team created precise 3D models of the underground structures, allowing for a detailed visualization of these forgotten features. These technologies not only confirmed the existence of the tunnels but also provided invaluable data for developing a digital twin of the castle, preserving its legacy and enabling further exploration.
The hidden passages at Sforza Castle, believed to have served as escape routes and supply pathways, offer a glimpse into the strategic defenses of the Sforza family. Leonardo da Vinci, employed by Ludovico Sforza during the late 15th century, worked on fortifications and military designs for the castle. While definitive proof of his involvement in these passages remains elusive, the engineering precision and innovative layout align with his documented expertise. This discovery bridges the gap between myth and history, showing how Renaissance ingenuity shaped both military and architectural advancements.
As researchers continue to study the tunnels, they hope to uncover more about their construction, purpose, and the role they played in the castle’s rich history. For now, the combination of cutting-edge technology and centuries-old architecture offers a fascinating intersection of past and present, unlocking new chapters of Milan’s storied past.
For more details on the exciting history, culture, and art associated with the Sforza Castle, hidden passages, and Leonardo da Vinci, visit this excellent article in ArtNet.
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Image: “Sforza Castle” by Terragio67 is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Source: Wikimedia Commons.
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