Leonardo's secret tunnels: Milan's hidden history unveiled
They have long been the subject of legends and speculation. Now it is confirmed that they truly exist. Under the Sforza Castle in Milan, a dozen secret tunnels have been discovered. Scientists realised that one of Leonardo da Vinci's drawings is actually a map leading to the hidden corridors.
In the 15th century, the Duke of Milan, Francesco I Sforza, ordered the construction of the Sforza Castle, which eventually became one of the most impressive fortresses in Europe. After the ruler's death, his son Ludovico continued his work and entrusted the decoration of the building's walls to several artists, including Leonardo da Vinci.
Rumours about secret passages located in the castle's underground have circulated for a long time. It recently turned out that the tunnels really exist and, as reported by the Milan Polytechnic, are depicted in Leonardo's drawings.
The tunnels under the Sforza Castle were located using ground-penetrating radar, which works by emitting radio waves deep into the ground and sending signals back to the antenna, reports Polsat News. Thanks to the latest technology, cavities and corridors located about 30 to 60 metres underground were revealed!
The georadar has enriched the 3D model with data on known but inaccessible spaces, bringing to light unknown passages and ideas for further studies on secret passages, explained Francesca Biolo, a researcher from the Department of Architecture, Built Environment and Construction Engineering at the University of Milan.
Will tourists see the secret passages under the Sforza Castle?
Milan scientists intend to show visitors the secret passages, but only in a digital version.
Why were secret passages built under the castle? Scientists have two theories on this matter. They suggest that the tunnels were likely used for military purposes but do not rule out that Ludovico built them to facilitate his access to the Santa Maria delle Grazie basilica, where his beloved wife Beatrice d'Este was buried.
