Castello Sforzesco (Milan Castle)

Visit the Milan castle museums and Castello Sforzesco

The castle as you find it today, which you can visit for free, was built on the remains of a previously built castle, called Castello di Porta Giova. The Castle of Milan (‘Castello Sforzesco‘) has been expanded and rebuilt several times and eventually it got its square design with the famous round towers at the corners. Restorations have also taken place after bombing and other destruction. With each renovation, the new owners or residents added their own ideas to Castello Sforzesco and architects and artists were hired to adapt and further expand the design of the castle itself, as well as the decorative elements.

Inhabitants of the castle

Several gentlemen of the Visconti family lived in the castle; they were a very well-known family in Italy. Duke Sforza later had the castle built on the old walls and then Prince Francesco Sforza took up residence there. Much later, the castle was used as a storage place for ammunition and even Spaniards lived in the castle when part of Italy was occupied by Spain. The French, Germans and Italians themselves also damaged the castle. It was not until Milan became part of the Kingdom of Italy in the nineteenth century that the castle’s military character disappeared and the entire site was handed over to Milan city.

Famous contributions to Castello Sforzesco

In the fifteenth century, Leonardo da Vinci was engaged to develop his artistic talents in the Castello Sforzesco. Along with others – Zenale, Butinone and Bramante – the Milan castle was embellished with frescoes and other decorations. Unfortunately, not everything has survived the destruction that has taken place over the years. What you will find in the castle is the manuscript of Leonardo da Vinci (Codex Trivulzianus). A special fact is that a few years ago works by Michelangelo were discovered in the castle.