Visconti Palace

Palazzo Visconti di Grazzano, located in via Cino del Duca in Milan, is a fascinating example of Baroque and Rococo architecture. Its construction dates back to the 18th century, when Giuseppe Bolagnos, a wealthy merchant, initiated a series of renovation and expansion works on a nucleus of pre-existing buildings. These works were continued by his son Carlo, but upon his death without heirs, the palace passed to the Ospedale Maggiore of Milan, which in 1759 sold it to Marquis Giuseppe Viani. Marquis Viani, determined to make the palace one of the most splendid residences in Milan, undertook further expansion and decoration works. During this period, the palace acquired many of the architectural and decorative elements that still characterize it today, such as the elaborate facades with mixed-line pediments, ornate windows, and the main entrance topped by a large irregular balcony.One of the most remarkable aspects of the palace is its richly decorated interior. The noble floor houses reception rooms with frescoes and stuccoes reflecting the Baroque and Rococo style of the time. Among the artists who contributed to the decoration of the palace is Nicola Bertucci, whose works adorn the ballroom. Another distinctive feature is the inner courtyard, characterized by arcades supported by paired columns and a small artificial grotto that adds a touch of exoticism to the architectural complex.In the 19th century, the palace passed to Carlo Finelli, who sold it to the noble Visconti di Modrone family for a considerable sum. The Visconti di Modrone family, eager to consolidate their social status, decorated the palace with their family crests and turned it into a symbol of their power and prestige. During their ownership, the palace became a center of social and cultural life, hosting events and receptions attended by the Milanese elite.World War II marked a difficult period for Palazzo Visconti di Grazzano. The building suffered serious damage due to bombings, which destroyed part of the interior decorations and structure. However, thanks to careful restoration work, the palace was restored to its original splendor. During these works, decorative interventions were carried out, including the frescoes of the Spring by Filiberto Sbardella, which still embellish the rooms of the noble floor today.In 1958, the palace was purchased by real estate company Lonate s.p.a., and its rooms were made available for public events. This has allowed the general public to access a place of extraordinary beauty and appreciate its artistic and architectural riches. Today, Palazzo Visconti di Grazzano is used for cultural events, conferences, and receptions, continuing to play an important role in the social and cultural life of Milan.An interesting anecdote related to the palace concerns the Visconti di Modrone family. It is said that Marquis Giuseppe Viani, to impress his guests, had an underground tunnel built connecting the palace to the nearby church of San Babila, allowing him to attend religious services without having to cross the city streets. This tunnel, although now closed and inaccessible, remains a symbol of the luxury and ingenuity of the palace owners.From an artistic point of view, Palazzo Visconti di Grazzano is a true treasure trove. In addition to the frescoes and stuccoes, the palace houses a collection of works of art and period furnishings that testify to the refined taste of its owners. The interiors, with their frescoed ceilings, decorated walls, and antique furniture, offer visitors a journey through time, allowing them to immerse themselves in the opulent atmosphere of the 18th century.