The Castle of Landriano, dating back to 1037 and located just 15 miles southeast of Milan, has recently hit the market with its listing managed by Sotheby’s International Realty. The property, spanning over 102,000 square feet, features 10 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, and an array of architectural elements that span from medieval towers to Renaissance courtyards. Its historical significance is underscored by archaeological finds from the 6th century and its role in the 1529 Battle of Landriano, part of the War of the League of Cognac.
Diletta Giorgolo, head of residential at Italy Sotheby’s International Realty, highlighted the castle’s unique historical value, noting that its first written mention dates back to 1037 when Emperor Conrad II destroyed it during his conflict with Milan. The castle was later transformed into a Renaissance residence in 1531, adding grand features like frescoed halls, a grand staircase, and refined residential spaces. However, its sale comes with a few caveats, with its price kept confidential due to its status as a protected heritage site in Italy.
The Castle of Landriano is a rare opportunity, as properties of this scale near Milan and Pavia are seldom available for sale. Many similar castles are either in ruins or have already been incorporated into public heritage. Despite the necessity for complete restoration, Giorgolo described the property as a ‘sleeping giant’ representing a once-in-a-century chance to acquire and revive a significant piece of European history. The castle is also steeped in local folklore, with legends that a 16th-century herbalist, Giannetta, is still said to haunt the halls, adding an extra layer of intrigue to its historical narrative.
This historic sale aligns with a broader trend of significant European estates entering the market. Recent examples include the listing of St. John’s Jerusalem, a medieval monastery in England once used by crusader monks, with a lease ending in 2122 and a valuation in the range of £3.25 million. The Castle of Landriano’s availability thus positions it as another landmark addition to the market of historically important properties, offering potential buyers the chance to acquire not just a home but a piece of European history.