Designed by Francesco Prestino, a military engineer serving the State of Milan, the fortification took its final shape in 1644. Hundreds of men worked daily on its construction, which incorporated the ancient medieval defensive tower of Becchignolo. The location of San Giovanni Fortress was strategic, both for defending the roads connecting to the hinterland and for deterring potential popular uprisings. Its imposing pincer-shaped walls, topped with hanging sentry boxes, have dominated the Finalborgo landscape for centuries.