Sforza Castle

In the middle of the city is an impressive castle, the Castello Sforzesco. Its origins date back to the mid-14th century when the Visconti family built a fort here. A century later it was completely rebuilt by the fourth Duke of Milan, Francesco Sforza. He expanded the complex with the Corte Ducale and the Cortile delle Milizie. Francesco Sforza was considered one of the most enlightened dukes of Milan. He knew the names of all his soldiers by heart, and even the names of their horses!

This magnificent example of military renaissance architecture is dominated by the 70 metre high Torre Filarete. You can walk around for free in this complex with its four meter thick walls, moats, towers and drawbridges. The surrounding garden (Parco Sempione) is also freely accessible.

You have to pay for the Musei del Castello. You will find paintings, ceramics, sculptures, antique furniture, tapestries, weapons and musical instruments. The fresco in the Sala delle Asse is possibly by Leonardo da Vinci, but that is not certain. The Rondanini Pietà is the last and unfinished work by Michelangelo, who made this work when he was 90 years old! In the pinacoteca there are paintings by Antonello da Messina, Canaletto, Andrea Mantegna, Bernardo Bellotto and others.

Within walking distance of the castle you will find some other special attractions such as Pinacoteca di Brera and La Triennale di Milano.