Medieval walls of Milan, Medieval defensive walls in Milan, Italy
The Medieval walls of Milan formed a nearly circular defensive system around the historic center with seven main gates and several smaller entry points. The remains of this fortification are today integrated into modern street layouts, partly following the course of historic canals.
Construction began in 1156 as defense against Frederick I Barbarossa, starting with wooden structures before switching to stone in 1162. This defensive system fundamentally shaped Milan's urban development for the following centuries.
The remaining gates like Porta Ticinese shaped how people entered and moved through the city for centuries. Today they stand between modern buildings, marking where commerce and daily life once passed through controlled checkpoints.
The wall remnants are best explored by following the Cerchia dei Navigli route, where original sections blend with contemporary buildings. Comfortable shoes are recommended since the route is long and passes through several neighborhoods.
The defensive system was originally surrounded by a water-filled moat fed by the Seveso and Nirone rivers. This water barrier was later transformed into Milan's famous canal network that exists today.
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