Evacuation of the Castello Sforzesco in Milan
On March 29, 2025, a small fire broke out around 11 am inside the iconic Castello Sforzesco in Milan, sparking immediate concerns due to the presence of valuable artifacts within the castle’s walls. Fortunately, fire brigade teams quickly brought the flames under control, and the situation did not escalate into a major disaster. Early reports suggest that the fire originated from an electrical fault in a display panel.
While the fire itself was contained in its initial phase, it produced a significant amount of smoke, prompting emergency responders to evacuate those inside the castle at the time. Fortunately, no injuries or intoxications have been reported, and no major damage has been caused to the structure or its priceless collections. However, as a precautionary measure, the castle has been closed to the public to allow fire crews to secure the area and complete their cleanup operations.
The Castello Sforzesco, one of Milan’s most visited landmarks, is particularly busy on weekends, attracting both tourists and locals. However, the fire broke out on a Saturday when no major events organized by the Milan Municipal Administration were taking place, which helped minimize the number of visitors in the affected area.
Within the castle, in an area completely separate from where the fire occurred, is the prestigious Trivulzian Library. This library, part of the Municipality of Milan, is home to some of the most important historical documents, including the Codex Trivulxianus by Leonardo da Vinci. The library is annexed to the Civic Historical Archive and shares some spaces with the restoration laboratory, including the consultation room. Although the fire did not affect this area, the potential risks posed to such irreplaceable works of art and history remain a point of concern.
The Hidden Risk of Electrical Faults in Heritage Sites
This incident also highlights the ongoing risks posed by electrical faults in historical buildings. As museums and libraries around the world increasingly rely on technology to safeguard and display valuable collections, they must balance modern electrical infrastructure with the preservation of delicate, centuries-old structures. Electrical systems, such as the one suspected to have caused the fire at the Castello Sforzesco, are critical to supporting lighting, climate control, and security systems, but can also present serious hazards if not regularly maintained and upgraded.
The quick response by fire teams and the lack of injuries in this particular incident are a testament to the importance of effective fire safety protocols. However, it also underscores the need for continued vigilance and investment in fire prevention and security measures in museums and cultural institutions, ensuring that irreplaceable treasures are protected from all types of threats, including those stemming from modern technology.
As the cleanup and investigation continue, authorities will likely review the incident to further assess any potential improvements needed in the castle’s fire safety systems. In the meantime, the Castello Sforzesco remained temporarily closed to the public, and officials have assured the public that the structure and its invaluable artifacts are safe.
