Majestic 15th-century fortress built by Francesco Sforza. One of the largest castles in Europe. Houses several museums with works by Michelangelo (Rondanini Pietà), Leonardo, and Egyptian antiquities. Castle courtyards are free to enter. Behind it — picturesque Sempione Park with Arch of Peace.
Courtyards free. Museums €5 (€3 reduced for seniors, students 18-25). Free under 18. Free entry: first & third Tuesday after 2 PM, first Sunday of month.
Metro M1 (red) to Cairoli or Cadorna. Or M2 (green) to Lanza or Cadorna. Cairoli exit leads directly to castle gates. Trams 1, 2, 4, 12, 14, 19.
Courtyards: daily 7:00-19:30. Museums: Tue-Sun 10:00-17:30, entry until 17:00. Closed: Monday, December 25, January 1, May 1.
faq.subtitle Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco)
Three main masterpieces: 1) Rondanini Pietà — Michelangelo's last work. 2) Leonardo da Vinci manuscripts and drawings. 3) Egyptian collection with mummies. Also halls with weapons, musical instruments, furniture.
Just courtyards and photos — 30-40 minutes. With museums — 2-3 hours. Full day if adding Sempione Park and Arch of Peace. Ideal to combine with Last Supper (15 min walk).
Useful tips for visiting Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco)
Perfect free route: Sforza Castle (courtyards) → Sempione Park → Arch of Peace → turtle pond. 2-3 hours of pleasant walking.
First Sunday of month — free museum entry! But very crowded. Alternative — 1st or 3rd Tuesday after 2 PM.
In Sempione Park behind castle you can rent boats on the lake or have a picnic. In summer, cafes with Arch of Peace views.
Ticket office closes at 4:30 PM, last museum entry at 5 PM. Plan your visit ahead, especially if you want to see everything.
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