Nestled in the charming town of Legnano, just a stone's throw from Milan, the Guido Sutermeister Museum—known locally as Museo civico Sutermeister—stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of history that this region of Italy has to offer. This museum is not just a collection of artifacts; it is a journey through time, inviting visitors to explore the fascinating layers of history that have shaped the area from prehistoric times to the medieval period.
The museum owes its existence to the passionate efforts of Guido Sutermeister, an esteemed archaeologist who dedicated his life to uncovering the secrets of Legnano and its surroundings. Established in 1929, the museum houses a remarkable collection of artifacts unearthed during Sutermeister’s extensive archaeological endeavors from 1925 to 1964. Over the years, the collection has been enriched by contributions from the Lombardy Archaeological Superintendency and generous private donations, making it a treasure trove of historical wonders.
The museum is housed in a building that echoes the architectural style of the 15th-century Maniero Lampugnani, a noble residence that once graced the area. Though the original manor was demolished in 1927, elements such as wooden coffered ceilings, columns, and fireplaces were salvaged and incorporated into the museum's design. The building itself, completed in 1928, features an L-shaped layout with a charming portico supported by columns from the original manor. Its brick facade and wooden ceilings create an inviting atmosphere, while the geometric graffiti designs on the walls pay homage to the frescoes that once adorned the Lampugnani residence.
The Guido Sutermeister Museum offers visitors a captivating exploration of the past through its diverse collections. As you step into the portico, you are greeted by an array of stone artifacts from the Roman era, including altars, funerary stelae, and sarcophagi. These ancient relics provide a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of the people who once inhabited the region.
Within the museum, the studiolo houses a fascinating collection of artifacts that once belonged to Emilio Sala, a renowned local collector. This assortment includes items from the Greek, Etruscan, and pre-Roman civilizations of Italy, dating from the 9th to the 3rd centuries BC. Among these treasures are a bronze fibula from Lazio and a beautifully decorated lekanis from Sicily, each telling its own story of ancient craftsmanship and culture.
In the saletta della torre, visitors can marvel at the museum's numismatic collection, which spans from ancient Greece to the medieval Lombard period. The coins, made of gold, silver, bronze, and copper, were discovered during local archaeological excavations. These coins not only served as currency but also played a role in dating the archaeological sites where they were found, offering invaluable insights into the region's history.
The museum’s exhibition rooms, including the salone d'onore and the loggetta, showcase a wide array of archaeological finds from Legnano and its environs. The collection spans from the Copper Age to the Lombard medieval period, with highlights including a fragment of a bell-shaped vase from the 3rd millennium BC and artifacts from the Canegrate culture of the 13th century BC. The rich Roman collection, dating from the 1st century BC to the 5th century AD, reveals the area's vibrant history during the Roman Empire.
The Guido Sutermeister Museum is more than just a repository of ancient artifacts; it is a living legacy of the region's history, culture, and identity. The museum's status as a certified museum, granted by the Lombardy Region in 2004, underscores its importance as a cultural institution. With its five exhibition halls and beautifully preserved architecture, the museum offers a unique window into the past, inviting visitors to connect with the stories and people who have shaped this remarkable corner of Italy.
Whether you are a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, a visit to the Guido Sutermeister Museum promises a captivating journey through time. From the ancient relics of the Roman era to the intricate designs of the Renaissance, each exhibit weaves a rich tapestry of history that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who wander through its halls.
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