Built for purely defensive reasons by Galeazzo II Visconti around 1368, the Castello lost its initial destination as a fortress to assume that of a kingly dwelling but only to resume its original role of efficient fortress in 1450 under Francesco Sforza, the new Lord of Milan. His successor, Ludovico il Moro, turned the Castello into one of the most sumptuous courts of Renaissance Italy and a point of attraction of the most talented artists of the time.
With the sixteenth century began the slow and fatal decline of this massive building. In the eighteenth century the Castello was taken over by the Austrians who, with the exception of the French rule by Napoleon between 1796- 1814, kept it until the liberation of Lombardy by Vittorio Emanuele II.
Its reconstruction was carried out by the famous architect Luca Beltrami who, starting in 1893, brought the Castello back to its former model.
Among the many interesting centres of attractions of the castle, it is worthwhile mentioning the impressive Tower of Filarete, the huge Piazza d’Armi Courtyard, the Rocchetta Courtyard and the small Courtyard of the Fountain.
Castello Sforzesco
Opening hours:
daily from 9.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.
Free admission (except for castle museums)
Closed on:
December 25, January 1, May 1, August 15
Public transport:
Underground: MM1 Cadorna, Cairoli - MM2 Cadorna, Lanza
Buses: 43, 50, 57, 58, 61, 70, 94
Trams: 1, 3, 4, 12, 14, 20, 27
INFORMATION: tel. (+39) 02/88463700
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