The spirit of interdependence, part of the dynamic and creative Milan that we know, could not help but produce talented personages important to the whole of humanity. As protagonists of their time, they distinguished themselves in many, various spheres: art and industry, science and medicine, political and civil endeavour, the fulfilment of grand ideals and dedication to a life of prayer and charity as witnessed by the great Milanese saints.
Already in the high medieval period, Saint Augustine found the conditions in Milan perfect for formulating his theology and providing a new foundation for the whole Christian doctrine. Leonardo da Vinci, during his twenty years in Milan, created his most enigmatic works, such as “The Last Supper” and the “Lady with an Ermine”. He also created two codes, the Codex Atlanticus and the Codex Trivulzianus, which are still preserved within the city, and executed a series of urban development projects, among which the water system is still visible today. Some centuries later, in those very circles of knowledge active in Milan, Cesare Beccaria revolutionised the universal concept of justice. His treatise “On Crimes and Punishment” encouraged abolition of the death penalty and corporal punishment and ushered in a new era of universal reflection on human rights.
This extraordinary gallery of characters livens up the city.
