Archaeologists in Milan have confirmed the existence of underground tunnels depicted in one of Leonardo da Vinci’s little-known sketches. Using ground-penetrating radar and laser scanning, researchers discovered hidden passages beneath the Sforza Castle, which the artist wrote about more than 500 years ago.
A team of Italian researchers has uncovered another mystery of the genius Leonardo da Vinci. Based on his ancient drawing, they found an underground labyrinth beneath the Sforza Castle in Milan, a structure built in the 15th century by Duke Francesco Sforza.
The drawing, found in the archives and relating to Leonardo’s designs for the castle, contained a diagram of tunnels previously considered to be legendary. To verify the data, specialists from the Polytechnic University of Milan, Codevintec and the Sforza Castle administration used ground-penetrating radar and laser scanning.
‘We confirmed the existence of the tunnels mentioned by Leonardo and discovered new unknown passages that may be part of a complex system of underground passages,’ said researcher Francesca Biolo.
Scientists believe that the underground galleries were used for military purposes and secret movements. According to preliminary data, one of the passages connected the castle with the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie, where Leonardo’s legendary ‘The Last Supper’ is kept and where members of the Sforza family are buried.
‘Our goal is to create a digital twin of the castle, which will not only recreate the historical appearance of the structure, but also allow us to study hidden elements that have disappeared over time,’ said Professor of Geomatics Franco Guzzetti.
New augmented reality technology will allow visitors to the castle in the future to literally follow in Leonardo’s footsteps and explore inaccessible underground spaces in virtual form.
Thus, the great master’s work has once again inspired discoveries, connecting the Renaissance era with modern technology.
