As part of a doctoral thesis, the prestigious Politecnico di Milano has conducted a pioneering technological study that has uncovered hidden secrets beneath the Sforza Castle, one of Milan’s most iconic landmarks. This project, developed in collaboration with the castle itself, has identified a network of underground passages that may have both functional and strategic origins.

Among these, some stand out that, according to ancient accounts and sketches attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, could have been used for military or even personal purposes, such as connecting Ludovico il Moro with his wife, Beatrice d’Este.

Historical sources suggest that Ludovico Sforza, known as Ludovico il Moro, ordered the construction of a secret passage linking the castle to the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie, where Beatrice’s remains lie. This tunnel, shrouded in legends and myths for centuries, has long been a subject of interest for both historians and Renaissance enthusiasts. Now, thanks to technological advancements, research indicates that these stories may have a basis in reality.

Sforza Castle
Ground-penetrating radar reveals new secrets under Milan’s Sforza Castle. Credit: Politecnico di Milano

To conduct this fascinating investigation, experts used cutting-edge tools like ground-penetrating radar and laser scanners. These precision instruments have mapped the castle’s underground layers, documenting the presence of cavities and passageways just a few decimeters below the surface. These technologies have not only confirmed the existence of subterranean structures but have also opened new perspectives for studying the castle’s history and its surroundings.

Ground-penetrating radar, which detects underground anomalies using electromagnetic waves, was key to identifying areas of interest without invasive excavation. Meanwhile, the laser scanner provided a detailed three-dimensional representation of the subsurface, allowing a better understanding of the dimensions and characteristics of the discovered passages.

One of the most ambitious goals of this research is the creation of a “digital twin” of Sforza Castle. This virtual model aims not only to replicate the castle’s current appearance with impressive detail but also to reconstruct historical elements lost over time.

Sforza Castle
Main facade of the Sforza Castle in Milan. Credit: Guillermo Carvajal / labrujulaverde.com

Integrating archaeological, historical, and technological data into a single model will allow an interactive exploration of the past, offering a valuable resource for both researchers and the general public.

With the “digital twin”, virtual tours will transport users to different periods in the castle’s history, providing a comprehensive view of its architectural evolution and strategic importance. Additionally, this tool could support future studies and restoration projects, ensuring the preservation of this cultural heritage.

The tunnels, which for centuries existed only in speculation, now come to life through images and three-dimensional models that connect the legacy of figures like Leonardo da Vinci with the capabilities of the modern world.



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