Castello Sforzesco

The Sforzesco Castle is one of the most important monuments of Milan. Was built as a defensive fortress with square plan between 1360 and 1370, at the behest of Galeazzo II Visconti. In 1450, Francesco Sforza, the new Lord of the city, builds and refines the fortress according to the plans of Filarete and Bartolomeo Gadio. Over the years, the Castle takes on the appearance of a stately home, with the addition of a Ducal Court and the "Rocchetta". With Ludovico il Moro, the Castle is enhanced thanks the intervention of Bramante and Leonardo da Vinci. When Milan is submitted to Spanish rule, in '500, the Castle is surrounded by a star-shaped fort, which makes it impregnable, and maintains its militar function until the arrival of Napoleon's troops. Only after the Unification of Italy and the passage of the monument to the city of Milan, begins its restoration by architect Luca Beltrami, who returns it to its former glory. Today the Castle is home to numerous museums and libraries.

Info:

Free entrance.