For centuries, whispers of hidden tunnels beneath Milan’s iconic Sforza Castle have intrigued historians, locals and treasure hunters alike.
One of the earliest sources of these rumors? None other than Leonardo da Vinci himself.
Now, modern technology is proving the Renaissance master painter and engineer was right all along.
Built in 1494 by Ludovico Sforza, Duke of Milan, the Sforza Castle stands atop the remains of a 14th-century fortress.
Leonardo da Vinci, who worked for the Sforza family from 1482 to 1499, left behind notes and sketches detailing the existence of underground tunnels beneath the grand estate.
One particularly intriguing passage, according to da Vinci’s writings, led to a church located about a kilometer outside the castle walls. The grieving Duke, mourning the loss of his wife, is believed to have used this secret route to visit her grave undetected.
Now, researchers from Milan’s Polytechnic Institute have used advanced electromagnetic radar to scan the area beneath the castle, confirming the presence of multiple underground structures. These tunnels, found just 30 to 60 centimeters beneath the surface, align with the descriptions in da Vinci’s notes.
Military Secrets and Virtual Reconstructions
While some tunnels may have been used for personal or religious purposes, researchers suggest that many were likely part of the castle’s hidden defenses, allowing for covert movement during times of conflict.
To bring this historical discovery to life, the team is now working on a digital twin of the castle.
According to a press release by Politecnico di Milano, "the goal is to create a digital twin of the Sforza Castle, a digital model that not only represents the current appearance of the Castle but also allows you to explore the past, recovering historical elements that are no longer visible."
