CastelloSforzesco is an old castle in the centre of Milan that today houses artgalleries and museums rather than royal families. Visit the Museum of AncientArt or take a tour of the historic fort.
CastelloSforzesco’s history is long and tumultuous. Once a citadel, it then housed theVisconti royal family until the last of the Viscontis passed away. Milaneseresidents tore the building to the ground after the royal family left but itwas rebuilt a few years later and went on to serve as a fortress. The mostdistinctive feature of the new building was the 70-metre (230-foot) tower atits centre that’s still visible today.
Overthe centuries battles were won and lost, residents came and went and the castlesuffered a lot of damage. It was eventually renovated and opened to the publicas a cultural centre in 1900. Paintings by artists such as Leonardo da Vincithat once hung on the walls were salvaged and can still be found in the castletoday.
Takea tour of the building and grounds. Several local operators guide groupsthrough the compound. Touch fortress walls and admire the Torrione Dei Carminiand Torrione di Santo Spirito, two of the original towers that were once usedto guard the grounds. Learn about the various occupants of Castello Sforzescoover time, including the fascinating tale of the Visconti family.
TheMuseum of Ancient Art, The Museum of Musical Instruments and the AntiqueFurniture and Wooden Sculpture Museum are among the institutions housed heretoday. See artwork by Michelangelo and study famous manuscripts by da Vinci.
Whenyou’ve had your art and history fix, find a spot of grass beneath shady treesand enjoy a warm Italian afternoon outdoors.
CastelloSforzesco lies on the edge of the biggest park in Milan. Reach the castle bymetro or on foot. If you choose to drive there is parking nearby for a fee.
Thecastle and its grounds are closed on Monday and certain public holidays. Pay asmall fee to enter.
