Vigevano Facts for Kids

Vigevano is a cool town in northern Italy, located in the Lombardy region. It's known for its beautiful old buildings and a big industrial area. The town is in the middle of Lomellina, a place famous for growing rice. Vigevano became an official city in 1532, thanks to Duke Francis II Sforza. One of its most famous spots is the amazing Renaissance "Piazza Ducale", a Renaissance-style square right in the heart of town.

Vigevano's Early History
- Vigevano and Milanese Control
- Important Buildings and Leaders
Main Attractions in Vigevano
- Exploring Castello Sforzesco
  - Famous Guests and Features
Famous People from Vigevano
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Vigevano's Early History

A street in central Vigevano.

Vigevano has a long history, going back to the 10th century AD. Back then, a Lombard king named Arduin of Ivrea loved this area. He enjoyed hunting here a lot.

Vigevano and Milanese Control

Vigevano was a "Ghibelline" town, which meant it supported the Emperor. Because of this, the people from Milan attacked and took over Vigevano in 1201 and again in 1275. In 1328, Vigevano finally joined Azzone Visconti, a powerful leader from Milan. After that, Vigevano's future was tied to Milan's.

Important Buildings and Leaders

The Church of S. Pietro Martire (St. Peter Martyr) was built in 1445. It was created by Filippo Maria Visconti, along with a nearby Dominican convent. Later, Francesco I Sforza tried to take control of Vigevano. Once he became powerful in Lombardy, Sforza made Vigevano the home of a bishop. This helped the town grow and become more important.

Main Attractions in Vigevano

Exploring Castello Sforzesco

Vigevano is famous for its amazing Castello Sforzesco. This strong castle was rebuilt between 1492 and 1494. It was made for Ludovico il Moro, a very important person who was born in Vigevano. He turned an old hunting lodge into a fancy home, mixing old Gothic styles with new Renaissance designs.

Famous Guests and Features

Leonardo da Vinci and Donato Bramante were guests at the castle. Bramante is believed to have designed the tall tower that stands over the main square. The old castle has a special raised covered road. It's high enough for people on horseback to ride through! This road connects the new palace to the older parts of the castle. You can also find a Falconry, which is a place for training falcons. There's also an elegant loggia (a covered walkway) with 48 columns. In the back, there's the Ladies' Loggia, built for Duchess Beatrice d'Este.

Famous People from Vigevano

Vigevano has been home to many interesting people throughout history.

Guido da Vigevano (around 1280 - 1349) was a doctor and inventor.
Ludovico Sforza (1452–1508), also known as "The Moor," became the Duke of Milan.
Eleonora Duse (1858–1924) was a famous Italian actress.
Gian Carlo Rota (1932–1999) was a mathematician and philosopher.
Margie Santimaria (born 1989) is a professional triathlete.