Sforza Castle

The Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco) dates back to the 15th century when it was originally a fortress, and is now home to some of Milan’s top museums and works of art. Named after Francesco I Sforza, the founder of the Sforza dynasty, a major ruling family of the Renaissance era. The castle’s main focal point, the Torre del Filarete (The Filarete Tower) is a 70 meter high tower with a distinctive shape, that has become one of the symbols of Milan. Situated in the southeast corner of Sempione Park (Parco Sempione) near the Brera neighborhood, the Sforza Castle is a must-do on your trip to Milan.

When inside, don’t miss out on the Sala delle Asse, literally meaning “room of the wooden boards”, a long room covered from wall to ceiling with tempera paintings by Leonardo da Vinci in 1498. Other notable art collections include the last incomplete work by Michelangelo, the Pietà Rondanini. During World War II, the castle was severely damaged by the Allied bombing of Milan. As recent as 2012, historians are still finding new notable works of art within the castle including sketches attributed to Caravaggio.

Every first and third Tuesday of the month and every first Sunday of the month, all of the castle museums have free entry, with some exceptions for limited time exhibitions or events. Our Milan Day Segway Tour stops at the Sforza Castle, where you can glide along the fortress walls and hear fascinating stories from your expert, english-speaking tour guide that you won’t find in the common guide book.