Founded in 1456 the Ospedale Maggiore in Milan boasts a rich history. It stands as a testament to the Duke Francesco I Sforza’s vision. He established this magnificent hospital primarily to win over the hearts of Milan’s people. They remained loyal to the Visconti family. His wife Bianca Maria Visconti was a member of that very family.
The Ospedale Maggiore was originally known as the Magna Domus Hospitalis or Ca’ Granda. Its design was entrusted to the renowned architect Filarete. The skilled engineer Guiniforte Solari oversaw its construction. He was also responsible for the courtyard of the Certosa di Pavia. The hospital’s cloisters were later completed and ornamented by Giovanni Antonio Amadeo. He was Solari’s son-in-law and pupil.
While intended for the poor the Ospedale Maggiore treated those with a chance of recovery. Chronic illnesses were handled in hospitals outside the city. This is why the Ospedale Maggiore became the city’s central hub for health information.
Early in the 20th century a decision was made to relocate the hospital. The move coincided with the founding of the state university. The university occupied the old Ca’ Granda buildings. The Ospedale Maggiore then moved to a larger area. It lies between the streets of Francesco Sforza Porta Romana Lamarmora and Commenda.
The obstetrics and gynecology department was the first to open. It was established by Luigi Mangiagalli. He was the university’s first chancellor. The department still bears his name today. The move also saw the creation of a general hospital in the Niguarda area. Designed by Giò Ponti it opened in 1932. The Niguarda hospital kept the Ca’ Granda name. The new general hospital became the Ospedale Maggiore.
Throughout its existence the Ospedale Maggiore has been home to prominent medical figures. These include Carlo Forlanini inventor of artificial pneumothorax. There was also Edoardo Porro who innovated the caesarean section. Baldo Rossi a pioneer of emergency surgery was another important figure. Luigi Mangiagalli founded the Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Luigi Devoto a pioneer of occupational medicine also worked there.
The Ospedale Maggiore’s insignia originally depicted the Annunciation. Its motto was ave gratia plena. It was later simplified to a dove representing the Holy Spirit. The hospital’s current logo still reflects this history. The olive branch in the dove’s beak was a later addition.
The Ospedale Maggiore stands as a proud symbol of Milan’s enduring commitment to healthcare. It is a place where history innovation and compassion intertwine. It continues to serve its community as a modern hospital with 900 beds. During the initial COVID-19 outbreak 300 beds were quickly adapted to treat patients. This remarkable institution’s history is a captivating tale. It reflects both the city’s resilience and its dedication to healing.