Things to do in Sforza Castle
The Sforza Castle was built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, the Duke of Milan, and was the residence of the lords of the city for four centuries. It was one of the biggest citadels in Europe and it is sited along Sempione Park, the largest park in the city.
The castle was originally built in the mid-14th century by Galeazzo Visconti, the Lord of Milan, and symbolized the power of the Visconti family. As the family's power declined with the death of Galeazzo, so did the castle. Many battles followed as the Spain, French and German nobles tried to claim title of the castle, but it was Francesco Sforza and the people of Milan who ultimately controlled power and ousted the Visconti family.
Sforza had the original castle rebuilt but wanted to display his power and sophistication, so he added a touch of Renaissance to it. He hired a famous Florentine architect known as Filarete to come and build the new fortress. The castle is square-shaped and features four towers at each corner, three courtyards, and a moat.
Leonardo da Vinci spent most of his golden years as an artist at the castle. He contributed to completing many frescoes in a number of the castle's rooms and much of his work portrayed people from the court such as Lady with an Ermine, La Belle Ferronière, and Portrait of a Musician.
Sforza Castle is the largest monument in the city of Milan and second most popular, behind The Duomo. Following an extensive restoration work carried out at the beginning of the twentieth century, it now houses several of the city's museums and art collections.
Our recommendations in Sforza Castle
Explore all the secrets hidden in the Sforza Castle of Milan with this 1.5-hour guided experience inside one of the most iconic symbols of the city.
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Best of Milan and Last Supper semi-private tour from Duomo
Visit the main gems of Milan with this 3-hour guided walking tour such as Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Teatro alla Scala, Brera.
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Escape Tour self-guided, interactive city challenge in Milan
Discover Milan in a unique way: find clues and complete the puzzle in an escape app-guided tour!
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Last Supper Entry Ticket and Guided Tour in Milan
Visit Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, The Last Supper, and enjoy a guided walking tour up to the Sforza Castle.
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Explore all the secrets hidden in the Sforza Castle of Milan with this 1.5-hour guided experience inside one of the most iconic symbols of the city.
en, it
Best of Milan and Last Supper semi-private tour from Duomo
Visit the main gems of Milan with this 3-hour guided walking tour such as Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Teatro alla Scala, Brera.
en
Escape Tour self-guided, interactive city challenge in Milan
Discover Milan in a unique way: find clues and complete the puzzle in an escape app-guided tour!
en, nl
Last Supper Entry Ticket and Guided Tour in Milan
Visit Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, The Last Supper, and enjoy a guided walking tour up to the Sforza Castle.
en
Duomo and Sforza Castle guided tour
Explore the Duomo Cathedral, the underground and the Terraces, visit the Sforza Castle and discover Michelangelo's Pietà Rondanini.
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Milan audio guide with TravelMate app
Explore Milan at your leisure with this TravelMate app on your mobile device. Don't miss anything and learn interesting facts about the city.
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Explore Milan at your own pace! Enjoy an app containing over 130 points of interest, famous transport routes, sightseeing itineraries and walking tours.
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Last Supper, Duomo, San Maurizio and Sforza Castle Guided Walking Tour
Discover Milan's iconic landmarks on a full-day tour with an expert guide. Skip lines, explore the Duomo, Scala Opera House, Sforza Castle, and more.
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How to get there
Sforza Castle
Milan
Italy
Reviews Sforza Castle
“My wife and I very much enjoyed our guided tour of the castle and the Last Supper. Our guide's in depth knowledge and passion was evident and added greatly to our understanding of Leonardo's genius.Tim”
“Flexible tickets, all the highlights of the city - really a perfect experience! Booking was simple and fast”
“On my trip to Milan I really enjoyed this exclusive tour. The price was fair and a good value. Good service for online booking!”