Palazzo Isimbardi

Is it possible that a building can hold centuries of Milanese history within its walls? We are standing before Palazzo Isimbardi, a place that has witnessed political intrigue, artistic endeavors, and the ebb and flow of power in Milan. While the exact origins of Palazzo Isimbardi are shrouded in mystery, the first written record mentioning it dates back to the late 15th century. It was then a residence owned by the Pallavicino family. In the mid-16th century, ownership passed to the wealthy Taverna family, who transformed it into their suburban retreat. The Taverna family, with their considerable wealth, remodeled the palazzo extensively. Tragedy struck in 1607 when Gian Paolo Osio, the notorious lover of the Nun of Monza, sought refuge in the palazzo. Believing he would find safety with the Taverna family, he instead met a grim end, treacherously killed in the palazzo’s cellars. His ghost is said to still roam the halls. After the Taverna line ended, the palazzo changed hands a few times before ending up with the Lambertenghi family in 1731. They, too, left their mark on the building, significantly redesigning it in the fashionable Lombard Baroque style. Finally, in 1775, the Isimbardi family, a noble lineage from Pavia, acquired the palazzo. Palazzo Isimbardi thus got its current name. They continued the tradition of renovation, most notably revamping the garden facade. The Isimbardi family held onto the palazzo until 1908 when it was sold upon Luigi Isimbardi’s death. Today, Palazzo Isimbardi serves as the seat of the Metropolitan City of Milan. It stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and the enduring power of architectural grandeur.