The Historic Residence
A fortress, like most medieval manor houses, built on a small hill for territorial defense, and specifically part of the northern defensive line of the Duchy of Milan.
Its location was strategically important and was part of the Visconti family’s western defensive network.
The Jerago fortress had no openings to the outside and the courtyard was accessed through a narrow corridor from a ravelin with towers.
The center of social life was inhabited by the feudal lord with his family, the armed guards, and the executioner for the administration of justice.
Within the castle walls, local populations found refuge during fierce sieges by invading forces.
From the Visconti to Today
The fief was granted in 1248 by Ottone Visconti, Archbishop of Milan, to his brother Gaspare and his nephew Pietro.
Several members of the Visconti of Jerago family held positions of importance in the civil administration of the duchy.
Antonia married Carmagnola, a mercenary captain whose story inspired Manzoni’s tragedy.
Elisabetta married Cicco Simonetta, famous ducal secretary during the time of the Sforza.
The castle suffered a violent siege when the Visconti family weakened after the death of GianGaleazzo Visconti in 1402.
The Castle was also prominent during the territorial struggles in Gallarate between the Spanish and the French.
Specifically, in July 1536, Jerago was the scene of a battle in the war between France and Spain, involving Emperor Charles V and King Francis I of France.
The Visconti family of Jerago became extinct with the death of Antonio, who fell from his horse, in 1751.
The fief passed to the Austrian Royal House until the late 18th century, when it was purchased by the Bossi and Anguissola families and the fortress was converted into a residence.
Windows were opened on the south side and the two garden terraces were built as can be seen today. After further changes of ownership, the castle, still a private residence, underwent restoration around 1960 by the famous BBPR architectural studio.