Sforza Castle

Symbol of the Sforza era – Sforza Castle – Castello Sforzesco.

The first castle on this site was built back in the 14th century by the Visconti family of Milan. In 1450, Francesco Sforza comes to power in Milan and rebuilds the already, by that time, half-ruined castle.

Ludovico Moro (Ludovico Sforza) invites Bramante and Leonardo da Vinci to work, and they transformed the castle into a prestigious residence.

During the tour, you will see and visit:

  • Filarete Tower
  • Armory Square
  • Ducal Courtyard
  • Portico ‘with the elephant’
  • Fortress within the fortress ‘Rocchetta’
  • In the mid-20th century, the castle becomes the first municipal museum in the city.

  • Museum of Ancient Art
  • Tapestry Halls
  • Old Flag of Milan
  • Hall of Weapons and Armor
  • Audience Hall with Leonardo’s painting
  • The stunning golden Ducal Chapel
  • An elegant life-sized tombstone for French General Gaston de Foix by Bambaja
  • The last work of Michelangelo – ‘Pietà Rondanini’, which remained unfinished.
  • In the pinacoteca of the castle, you will see:

  • Works by Leonardo’s pupil Francesco Napolitano ‘Madonna Lia’ (against the backdrop of views of Sforza Castle)
  • Vincenzo Foppa ‘Madonna with a Book’
  • Andrea Mantegna ‘Madonna in Glory surrounded by Saints’
  • Canaletto ‘Views of Venice’ and other artists.
  • The Castle also houses: Museum of Musical Instruments, Egyptian Museum, Archaeological Museum, collection of antique furniture, collection of decorative arts, collection of prints by Achille Bertarelli.

    You can also specify the attractions you would like to visit.

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