Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco) | Milan

Information

Landmark: Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco)
City: Milan
Country: Italy
Continent: Europe

Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), Milan, Italy, Europe

Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco) is a major fortification and cultural complex in Milan. Built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan, it stands on the ruins of a 14th-century Visconti fortress and served as both a seat of government and a military citadel.

Visual Characteristics

The castle is a massive red-brick quadrangle surrounded by dry moats. The main entrance is dominated by the Filarete Tower, a 70-meter central gatehouse. The facade features two large circular corner towers (Torre di Santo Spirito and Torre del Carmine) clad in diamond-pointed dark stone. The interior contains expansive courtyards, including the Piazza d'Armi and the ornate Corte Ducale.

Location & Access Logistics

Located in the historic center at the end of Via Dante.

Public Transit: Metro M1 (Red) to "Cairoli" or "Cadorna"; Metro M2 (Green) to "Lanza" or "Cadorna." Numerous trams (1, 2, 4, 12, 14).

Entry: Access to the external courtyards is free. Entry to the various Civic Museums and exhibitions requires a ticket.

Accessibility: Courtyards are accessible, though cobblestones are uneven. Museums are equipped with elevators.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Originally a Visconti stronghold, it was expanded by the Sforza dynasty into one of the most luxurious courts in Europe. During centuries of foreign occupation (Spanish, French, Austrian), it functioned strictly as a military barracks. It was heavily restored at the end of the 19th century by architect Luca Beltrami to house Milan's civic art collections.

Key Highlights & Activities

Rondanini Pietà: Michelangelo’s final, unfinished masterpiece, displayed in a dedicated museum within the former Spanish Hospital.

Sala delle Asse: A room featuring a ceiling fresco of interwoven trees painted by Leonardo da Vinci.

Civic Museums: Includes the Museum of Ancient Art, the Pinacoteca (picture gallery), the Egyptian Museum, and the Museum of Musical Instruments.

Parco Sempione: The massive public park located behind the castle, formerly the ducal hunting grounds.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The complex includes a bookstore, a café in the Corte Ducale, and public restrooms. 4G/5G cellular coverage is excellent. Information points are located near the main Filarete Tower entrance.

Best Time to Visit

The courtyards are open daily from 07:00 to 19:30. Museums are closed on Mondays. Early morning offers the best light for the external facade, while the courtyards are particularly atmospheric at sunset.

Facts & Legends

The castle once housed Leonardo da Vinci's massive clay model for an equestrian statue of Francesco Sforza, which was destroyed by French soldiers in 1499. Legend claims a network of secret tunnels connects the castle to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie (home of The Last Supper).