Sforza Castle

Initially a Visconti stronghold, this notable red-block manor was later home to the compelling Sforza tradition, who ruled Renaissance Milan. The palace's protections were planned by the multitalented da Vinci; Napoleon later depleted the channel and evacuated the drawbridges.

Today, it houses seven particular historical centers, which assemble fascinating pieces of Milan's social and municipal history, including Michelangelo's last work, the Rondanini Pietà, now housed in the frescoed corridor of the mansion's Ospedale Spagnolo.Of the exhibition halls, the most intriguing is the Musei d'Arte Antica which is shown in the ducal lofts, some of which are frescoed by Leonardo da Vinci.

The display persuasively recounts the account of the introduction of Italy's first city comune through lethal dynastic and local desire, which made this a standout amongst the most intense courts in Europe.