Sforza Castle, Medieval castle in central Milan, Italy
Sforza Castle is a Renaissance fortress in central Milan, appearing as a sprawling brick structure organized around several inner courtyards. The architecture feels both heavy and articulated, with a tall central tower facing the entrance and four strong corner towers anchoring the outer walls.
The fortress arose in the mid-14th century under the rule of the Visconti family to protect the city from attack. A century later Francesco Sforza took over the site and converted it into a ducal residence, preserving the military layout while adding princely spaces.
The castle keeps the name of Francesco Sforza, the condottiero who rebuilt it from 1450 after the Ambrosian Republic was overthrown; without a crest of his own, he kept the Visconti viper as his emblem. Since the early 20th century the halls have housed the Trivulziana Library and museums of ancient Egypt, prehistory and musical instruments, entered on a single ticket.
The courtyards and outer grounds remain open throughout the day for walking and relaxing, while the museum rooms inside follow their own schedule. Visitors planning to explore the interior halls and exhibitions should allow extra time and wear comfortable shoes for the walk.
The Sala delle Asse in the Falconiera tower holds Leonardo da Vinci's ceiling painting of interwoven tree trunks and foliage, made in 1498. The room's decoration was long obscured by later layers before its recovery. The castle also keeps Michelangelo's unfinished Rondanini Pietà.
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