Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco) Verified listing

Sforza Castle (Italian: Castello Sforzesco) is a historic fortress located in Milan, Italy. Originally built in the 14th century by the Visconti family, it was later expanded and renovated in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan, after whom the castle is named. Its strategic position and robust design made it a key military structure, serving both as a defense fortress and a symbol of power for Milanese rulers. Over the centuries, it underwent several modifications under Spanish, French, and Austrian rule, adapting to the changing needs of its occupants.

The castle’s architecture reflects a blend of medieval and Renaissance styles. Its iconic central tower, the Torre del Filarete, was reconstructed in the early 20th century after having been destroyed in an explosion centuries earlier. The complex is massive, enclosed by high brick walls and flanked by corner towers, with a large central courtyard and several smaller internal courtyards. The castle grounds also include beautifully restored rooms with frescoes by masters such as Leonardo da Vinci, who worked there during Ludovico Sforza’s reign.

Today, Sforza Castle is one of Milan’s major cultural landmarks, housing several of the city's top museums and art collections. These include the Museum of Ancient Art, the Pinacoteca (art gallery), the Museum of Musical Instruments, and the Egyptian Museum. Among its most prized possessions is Michelangelo’s unfinished final sculpture, the Rondanini Pietà. With its blend of art, architecture, and history, the castle attracts tourists, historians, and art lovers from around the world.