logo
ic_menu

Castello Sforzesco, Milan

Piazza Castello, Milano, Lombardia

Description

The Castello Sforzesco was commissioned by the Duke of Milan, Francesco Sforza, in the 15th century on the ground of an existing castle with the objective to turn it into a princely residence. It was subsequently renovated and enlarged in the 16th and 17th century and now houses several museums and art collections. The castle is distinctive for its mix of square towers (Torre della Corte on the northern side and Torre del Tesoro on the western) and round towers (such as Torre del Filarete) that are more suitable to defend against fire weapons. The "Civic Museums' inside includes, inter alia: a) the Pinacoteca del Castello Sforzesco (art collection), b) the Museum of Ancient Art, c) the Museum of Musical Instruments, and d) the Egyptian Museum.

Access & Transport

The castle is between Cairoli station (M1, T1) and Sempione Park, 1km northwest of Piazza Duomo. Cadorna (trains, M1, M2) and Lanza (M2, T2, T4, T12, T14) stations are both 3mins walk away as well. Accessibility info: https://www.milanocastello.it/en/accessibility

Instructions & Recommendations

The Castle itself is open to the public every day from 07h00 to 19h30 for free. The practical information section relates to the Castle Museums. We suggest combining this activity with a visit of Sempione Park and the Triennale museum.

Meta review

Excellent online reviews for the castle complex that is tagged as being one of the emblems of the city. Visitors enjoy taking a walk in the gardens and Sempione Park, they also rate the castle as not unique but certainly very photogenic and those who opt to pay for the museums do enjoy the varied collection of artefacts although there are comments that some of the exhibits are not necessarily easy to locate.

Environmental & Social

We have no data on the energy consumption required to operate and maintain the palace and museums. The gardens are environmentally friendly. Helps preserve the city's cultural and architectural heritages

Conclusion

In our opinion, Castello Sforzesco is one of the key sights in the city and complements the artistic and cultural attractions with an historical & political component. None of the museums are 'must-see' for anybody pressed for time, but we do think they are diverse (so anybody can find something of interest) and excellent value overall.

Key positive

Visually impressive

Centrally located and pleasant surroundings (Sempione Park)

Low admission fee for the museums

Key negative

No top-tier museum

Suitability

Most of the castle and museums are accessible

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

June 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Closed on 01 Jan, 01 May, 25 Dec. Last ticket sold 1h before closing

av. transport time:0h 20m

est. visit time:1h 30m

Regulated hours

Monday -

Tuesday10:00 - 17:30

Wednesday10:00 - 17:30

Thursday10:00 - 17:30

Friday10:00 - 17:30

Saturday10:00 - 17:30

Sunday10:00 - 17:30

Pricing
Can be more expensive when there is a temporary exhibition (€8/6 for instance)
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
€3
Adult
26 - 64
€5
Teen & Young
18 - 25
€3
Child
3 - 17
€0
Infant
0 - 2
€0
Free entry every first and third Tuesday from 14.00 and every first Sunday of the month.

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. For a complete overview of all cookies used, please see MORE INFORMATION.