We explore the hidden tunnels beneath Milan's Sforza Castle, designed by Leonardo da Vinci and only recently discovered in 2025 using ground-penetrating radar technology. While working as a military engineer for Ludovico Sforza, da Vinci created secret passageways connecting important Renaissance landmarks that remained hidden for over 500 years.
• Leonardo applied to work for Ludovico Sforza primarily as a military engineer, listing artistic abilities as almost an afterthought
• The Sforza Castle evolved from military fortress to palace to museum, housing many Renaissance treasures
• Da Vinci designed the Sala della Asse with an elaborate ceiling of intertwined mulberry trees symbolizing prudence and productivity
• Researchers discovered actual tunnels that match Leonardo's sketches, including one connecting the castle to Santa Maria delle Grazie where The Last Supper was painted
• A mysterious sealed chamber was detected beneath the castle that has not been accessed since the 1490s
• Renaissance Milan was filled with political intrigue, spies, and dangerous power struggles alongside artistic innovation
• The castle has accumulated numerous ghost stories and legends of hidden treasure over its 500+ year history
Follow this podcast for more explorations of fascinating historical discoveries and overlooked stories from the past.
And a shark drops in on a disc golf game
