Castello Sforzesco Tours

Castello Sforzesco
Visit the Museum ofAncient Art, be guided through the castle or simply relax in the lusciousgrounds of this centuries-old fortress.

For over a century, this historic castle has been home to many ofMilan’s most notable galleries and museums. Discover the history of theCastello Sforzesco on tours or visit the cultural institutions housed within,including the Museum of Ancient Art.

Prior to being rejuvenated as a cultural hub, Castello Sforzesco had atumultuous history. It began its life as a citadel, became the home of theVisconti royalty and was then torn to the ground by the Milanese people afterthe last of the Viscontis died. Just a few years later it was rebuilt in itscurrent form, featuring a 230-foot (70-meter) tower at its center. During thisperiod the castle served as one of the largest fortresses in Europe, andfeatured Renaissance artwork by Leonardo da Vinci, among others. The followingcenturies saw a range of occupants, many battles and much damage to the castle.Finally, at the end of the 19th century, restoration began. In 1900 the castlewas opened to the public in its current form.

Visit Castello Sforzesco to discover the whole history ofthe compound. Tours can be arranged through local operators who will guide youthrough the structures that still remain on the site. See the two towers,Torrione Dei Carmini and Torrione Di Santo Spirito, which were built to guardthe castle. Many of the fortress walls also remain.

Venture inside to some of the city’s premier culturalinstitutions housed inside the complex. The Museum of Ancient Art includespieces by Michelangelo, while the Trivulziana Library is home to the originalmanuscript of da Vinci’s CodexTrivulzianus. The Museum of Musical Instruments, Antique Furniture and WoodenSculpture Museum and Applied Arts Collection all contain important artifactsfrom Italy’s past.

Castello Sforzesco is located within Parco Sempione, thelargest park in the city of Milan. It can be reached on foot or by car, withample parking available for a fee. A metro station also serves the castle andpark. The castle is closed Mondays and some holidays. A small admission feeapplies.

Reviews of Castello Sforzesco

4.5
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
327
" "5 - Excellent 58.81294964028777%
4 - Good
196
" "4 - Good 35.25179856115108%
3 - Okay
28
" "3 - Okay 5.0359712230215825%
2 - Disappointing
4
" "2 - Disappointing 0.7194244604316546%
1 - Terrible
1
" "1 - Terrible 0.17985611510791366%

3/5 - Okay

Kurt
Jan 7, 2020

Didn't see much as the close relatively early.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler
Jan 4, 2020

The "info" people were very confusing & frustrating to deal with. Several of the staff were mean/rude. The exhibitions were wonderfully done

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Jul 17, 2019

Great da Vinci exhibit

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Jun 24, 2019

very near the linate airport

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler
Jun 19, 2019

Make sure you go when the museum is open and allocate 2-3 hours for the tour. Impressive castle!

5/5 - Excellent

Jose
Jun 4, 2019

A must visit in Milan. Lots of history

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