Castello di Branduzzo, Medieval castle in Castelletto di Branduzzo, Italy.

Castello di Branduzzo is a rectangular fortified complex with four corner towers positioned at its angles. An internal courtyard is framed by long brick walls, and the property includes residential quarters, gardens, stables, and various farm buildings arranged around the main structure.

The Botta family acquired this fortified property in the 15th century and undertook major renovations. They preserved the original square towers and thick walls while adapting the spaces to meet their needs.

The name comes from the Branduzzo hamlet, not from a family: the castle belonged to the Botta family, who lived in the Pavia area from 1298 and gave rise to the Botta Adorno line in 1634 through a marriage with the last Adorno heiress. In 1488 the castle hosted a grand feast for the wedding of Gian Galeazzo Sforza and Isabella d'Aragona.

This castle is now private property owned by the Parrocchetti Piantanida family, so exterior viewing is the main option for visitors. You can appreciate the architecture and layout from outside while respecting the family's privacy.

Bergonzio Botta, treasurer general of the Duchy of Milan, was involved in works to divert the Po, planned with Leonardo da Vinci's help; the castle's Renaissance peak is tied to him, not to any architectural commission from Leonardo.