Leonardo’s River Boat

The Adda river, around 30 km eastward from Milan, was an important river for Leonardo. He made several drawings of its surroundings, and was inspired by its cliffs for the background of his famous painting “The Virgin of the Rocks”.

At Imbersago, in the northern part of the river, you can cross the river using a curious ferry-boat built after one of the drawings of Leonardo. The boat uses the current of the river with an moving submarine wing that, like a sail, pushes the boat across the river along a rope. The ferry can transport even cars. It’s not clear if Leonardo was the first to invent this boat, or if he drew it only because, like us, he was fascinated by the geniality of the idea.

 

The boat of Imbersago


The drawing of Leonardo
Practical Info printable version
address River Adda near Imbersago (Province of Lecco)
tel. -
e-mail -
website -
how to arrive SS 36 Milano-Lecco - Exit Merate - follow directions to Imbersago

2001 © leonardoamilano.org