Didn’t Pope Leo XIII’s family have a noble coat of arms? The Istituto Leone Tredicesimo proudly carries his legacy forward. This private Catholic school stands as a testament to Jesuit education in Milan. Founded in 1893, it has a rich history and a commitment to forming minds, hearts, and wills.
The Istituto Leone Tredicesimo started humbly. It began thanks to Milanese diocese initiatives. These celebrated Pope Leo XIII’s jubilee. The Jesuits returned to Milan. They established the “Collegio di San Luigi e convitto Leone XIII” in Corso di Porta Nuova.
The involvement of lay people was key. The Duke Tommaso Gallarati Scotti was a significant contributor. Ordinary people also donated to honor the Pope. This collaboration between laity and Jesuits remains a hallmark of the Istituto Leone Tredicesimo.
The school has faced challenges. During World War I, the military seized the building. The school moved temporarily to Corso Venezia. In World War II, bombs struck the Istituto Leone Tredicesimo in 1944. The Padri found refuge with the Orsoline sisters in Via Parini for five years.
The Istituto Leone Tredicesimo moved to its current location in Via Leone XIII in 1950. The church was added. Construction of the pool began in 1967. The central building facing Via Vincenzo Monti was built in 1977.
The coat of arms tells a story. It features the IHS symbol of the Society of Jesus. The cross of St. George represents Milan. Pope Leo XIII’s seal is a nod to his noble Sienese family, the Pecci family.
The library is a treasure. Padre Giulio Besana S.I. oversaw it for years. It boasts around 100,000 volumes. The collection includes incunabula and rare books. The library is specialized. It focuses on humanities and religious subjects. Students can use it.
Sport is integral to the Istituto Leone Tredicesimo. There is a pool and a synthetic grass soccer field. A synthetic rugby field is available. The school also has an outdoor basketball court. There is a running track and four gyms. Several sports associations are affiliated with CONI. They offer swimming, basketball, soccer, volleyball, and track and field.
The Istituto Leone Tredicesimo has seen many leaders. Gabriella Tona was the first woman and lay person to serve as dean. Vincenzo Sibillo is the current dean. He took over in 2023.
The Istituto Leone Tredicesimo offers a complete education. It includes kindergarten and primary school. The secondary school offers classical and scientific tracks. A sports-focused scientific program is available. The Istituto Leone Tredicesimo provides continuity. It connects education across all levels.
Many notable figures attended Istituto Leone Tredicesimo. These include Carlo Acutis and Gabriele Albertini. Luca Barbareschi and Luigi Caccia Dominioni were students here. Piero Manzoni, Mario Monti and Massimo Moratti also studied here.
The alumni association is active. It connects former students of the Istituto Leone Tredicesimo. The association strengthens the bonds. It ensures the school’s legacy continues. The Istituto Leone Tredicesimo stands as a beacon of Jesuit education. It shapes future generations in Milan.