Stories with Tag 15th century

• Mysterious tunnels sketched by Leonardo may have been found

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  Posted: 2025-03-07 12:55:02

  Verbose tl;dr

  Researchers believe they may have discovered a network of tunnels beneath Milan's Sforza Castle, potentially matching sketches made by Leonardo da Vinci during his time as a court engineer there in the late 15th century. Using ground-penetrating radar and archive research, the team identified several underground passages and chambers consistent with da Vinci's drawings, suggesting he may have played a larger role in the castle's design and construction than previously thought. Further investigation is needed to confirm the tunnels' connection to da Vinci, but the discovery offers a tantalizing glimpse into the artist's diverse talents and the castle's complex history.

  In a remarkable discovery that bridges the gap between historical speculation and archaeological reality, researchers in Milan, Italy, believe they have potentially unearthed a network of subterranean passages initially documented by none other than the Renaissance polymath, Leonardo da Vinci. These tunnels, located beneath the venerable Sforza Castle, a prominent landmark with a rich and storied past, are thought to correspond with sketches and annotations found within da Vinci's copious notebooks, specifically the Codex Atlanticus. This monumental compilation of da Vinci’s thoughts, inventions, and observations provides tantalizing glimpses into his multifaceted genius, and the newly discovered tunnels offer a fascinating physical manifestation of his documented interest in the castle's infrastructure.

  The exploration of these subterranean corridors, undertaken by a team of dedicated specialists, revealed a complex and extensive network stretching beneath the castle grounds. While the original purpose of these tunnels remains a subject of ongoing investigation and scholarly debate, it is postulated that they served a multitude of functions, potentially including discreet passageways for prominent figures, strategic escape routes in times of conflict, and perhaps even conduits for the clandestine movement of supplies and personnel. The researchers posit that the tunnels may have been commissioned by Ludovico Sforza, the Duke of Milan and da Vinci's patron, who likely employed da Vinci's engineering acumen in their design and construction.

  The tunnels' existence, while hinted at in historical records, had remained shrouded in mystery for centuries. Their rediscovery not only adds a tangible dimension to our understanding of da Vinci's involvement with the Sforza Castle but also provides invaluable insights into the architectural and engineering practices of the Renaissance period. The researchers emphasize the importance of further investigation and analysis to fully comprehend the extent and purpose of this subterranean network, including the precise dating of the tunnels and a comprehensive comparison of their layout with da Vinci's detailed sketches. The discovery promises to shed light on a previously unexplored facet of the castle's history and further illuminate the extraordinary genius of Leonardo da Vinci, a figure whose influence continues to resonate across centuries. The researchers are meticulously documenting their findings, employing state-of-the-art techniques to create a comprehensive record of this remarkable discovery and ensuring its preservation for future generations.

  • Leonardo da Vinci
  • Sforza Castle
  • Milan
  • Italy
  • Tunnels
  • archaeology
  • History
  • Art History
  • Renaissance
  • Architecture
  • discovery
  • 15th century
  • Secret Passages

  Summary of Comments ( 33 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43289774

  Verbose tl;dr

  Hacker News users discuss the discovery of tunnels potentially matching Leonardo da Vinci's sketches, expressing skepticism about the novelty. Several commenters point out that the tunnels have been known for a long time, even suggesting they've personally toured them. Some doubt da Vinci's direct involvement, proposing the tunnels pre-dated him and were simply documented in his drawings. Others question the CNN article's framing, suggesting it oversells a relatively mundane finding for clicks. A few users offer alternative theories about the tunnels' purpose, including water management or escape routes. Overall, the prevailing sentiment is one of mild disappointment, with commenters finding the "discovery" less exciting than the headline implies.

  The Hacker News post "Mysterious tunnels sketched by Leonardo may have been found" (linking to a CNN article about possible discovery of tunnels beneath Sforza Castle in Milan that Leonardo da Vinci may have documented) generated several comments.

  Many commenters focused on the lack of strong evidence connecting the discovered tunnels to da Vinci. Several pointed out the article's wording is suggestive but lacks definitive proof, using phrases like "may have explored" and "believed to be." One commenter highlighted the frequent rediscovery of tunnels and similar structures, suggesting this find may not be as unique or directly linked to da Vinci as the headline implies. Skepticism about the CNN article's framing was a recurring theme.

  Several commenters discussed the nature and purpose of such tunnels. Some suggested their primary function would have been defensive or for escape, while others posited they might have served more mundane purposes like sewage or water management. One commenter, drawing on personal experience living near castles, noted the prevalence of underground structures and their multifaceted uses throughout history.

  A few commenters expressed fascination with the potential connection to da Vinci and the historical context of the Sforza Castle, showing an interest in learning more about the period and da Vinci's involvement with the castle. However, even these comments were tempered by the general skepticism regarding the article's claim.

  At least one commenter provided additional information about the Sforza Castle and its history, offering a broader context for the discovery.

  While there's a sense of excitement and curiosity regarding the discovered tunnels, the prevailing sentiment in the comments is one of cautious skepticism. The commenters largely agree that the article oversells the connection to da Vinci and that more evidence is needed to definitively link him to these particular tunnels.

• Permission to Practise Medicine

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  Posted: 2025-01-26 17:57:50

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  This blog post from the British Library showcases a 15th-century manuscript (Harley MS 1760) containing a fascinating early example of medical licensing. The document grants "Master Nicholao" permission to practice medicine in the diocese of Norwich, specifically allowing him to treat internal ailments. Issued by the Bishop of Norwich, it highlights the Church's historical role in regulating medical practice and reveals contemporary understanding of medical specializations, differentiating between treating internal diseases and surgical procedures. The manuscript exemplifies the intersection of religious authority and healthcare in medieval England.

  This blog post, entitled "Permission to Practise Medicine," hosted on the British Library's Digitised Manuscripts blog, delves into the fascinating historical context surrounding the regulation of medical practice, specifically focusing on a particular manuscript held within the library's extensive collection. This manuscript, dating back to the 15th century, specifically the year 1421, provides a tangible example of the early mechanisms employed to authorize individuals to engage in the practice of medicine. The document itself is a license, granted by the Bishop of London, to one John Somerset, permitting him to administer medical care. The post meticulously details the intricacies of the license, explaining that it granted Somerset permission to practice across the Diocese of London, a geographically significant area encompassing not only the city of London itself, but also extending into parts of Essex, Middlesex, and Hertfordshire. The author emphasizes the importance of such licensure within the medieval context, highlighting the Church's role in overseeing various aspects of societal life, including healthcare. Furthermore, the post underscores the distinction between physicians, trained at universities, and surgeons and other medical practitioners who typically lacked formal university education. It suggests that individuals like John Somerset, while licensed by the Bishop, likely fell into the latter category, serving a vital role in providing medical care to the populace despite not holding a university degree in medicine. The post concludes by observing the historical significance of this document as a testament to the long-standing concern for regulating the practice of medicine, ensuring some level of competency and oversight in a profession deeply impactful on public health and well-being. The inclusion of the specific date, 28th of January, further enhances the tangible connection to this historical event and allows for a more vivid imagining of this pivotal moment in the life of John Somerset and the history of medical licensing.

  • Medicine
  • Medical History
  • Licensing
  • Regulation
  • history of medicine
  • medieval history
  • medieval manuscripts
  • Primary Sources
  • archives
  • British Library
  • Manuscripts
  • paleography
  • England
  • 15th century
  • health care

  Summary of Comments ( 13 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42832114

  Verbose tl;dr

  HN users discuss the historical context of medical licensing, highlighting how it served to protect established physicians and potentially stifle innovation. Some point out the inherent difficulty in assessing medical competence in earlier eras, lacking the standardized testing and scientific understanding we have today. Others draw parallels to modern regulatory hurdles faced by startups and new technologies, suggesting that licensing, while intended to protect the public, can also create barriers to entry and limit progress. The elitism and gatekeeping aspects of early licensing are also mentioned, with some arguing that similar dynamics still exist in modern healthcare systems. A few users express skepticism about the overall efficacy of medical licensing throughout history, questioning whether it has truly improved patient outcomes.

  The Hacker News post titled "Permission to Practise Medicine," linking to a British Library blog post about a medieval physician's license, generated several interesting comments.

  One commenter highlighted the striking similarities between the historical licensing process and modern medical regulation, noting the continued importance of established authorities granting permission to practice. They found it fascinating that core elements of professional certification have persisted across centuries.

  Another commenter pointed out the irony of the physician, John of Burgundy, being licensed to practice in London despite apparently not being English. They connected this to the broader historical context of migration and the movement of skilled individuals across borders, suggesting that even in the Middle Ages, cities recognized and sought out expertise regardless of nationality.

  A further comment focused on the text of the license itself, specifically the phrase granting permission "in the city and suburbs of London." This commenter questioned the geographical extent of the suburbs at that time and speculated on the challenges of defining the boundaries of the city's jurisdiction.

  Someone else expressed surprise at the apparent lack of a requirement for formal medical education, contrasting it with modern stringent educational pathways for physicians. They wondered about the prevailing medical knowledge and practices of the period and how competency was assessed in the absence of standardized training.

  The discussion also touched upon the role of the Bishop of London in granting the license, prompting a commenter to discuss the historical intertwining of religious authority and secular governance, particularly in matters of public health and welfare.

  Finally, a commenter reflected on the broader historical context of the Black Death, suggesting that the licensing of physicians might have been partly a response to the devastating plague and a desire to regulate medical practices in a time of crisis. They pondered whether this period saw an increased emphasis on formalizing medical authority.

  These comments collectively offer various perspectives on the historical license, touching on themes of professional regulation, migration, urban geography, medical education, religious authority, and the impact of historical events. They provide a richer understanding of the context surrounding the document and raise intriguing questions about the evolution of medical practice.