CASTELLO SFORZESCO

In the heart of Vigevano, one of the largest fortified complexes in Europe extends over 2 hectares. The ducal castle rises above the level of the rest of the settlement; a stone ramp allows access to the main courtyard from the Piazza Ducale. The present building stands on the site of a first palatial construction dating back to the reign of the Lombards (7th-10th century). It was the lords of Milan, the Viscontis and the Sforzas, who transformed it into a princely residence from the middle of the 14th century. Great artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Bramante played an important role in its construction, although it is difficult today to determine their precise interventions. Abandoned from the 16th century onwards, it was later transformed into a military barracks and thus badly deteriorated.

Ducal Palace. The construction of the main building (the maschio) was started by Duke Luchino Visconti and completed by his successors and by members of the Sforza family. The apartments of the Dukes of Milan were located here and were used as their summer residence throughout the 15th century. Ludovico il Moro even moved his court here. Once decorated with numerous Renaissance frescoes, today only the Sala dell'Affresco (1466-1476) remains, depicting hunting scenes in brilliant colours.

Falconry. This elegant arcaded loggia rests on 48 columns. Its name, the Falconry, comes from the fact that from here falcons were released for hunting. It dates back to 1475, but Ludovico the More completed its construction in 1488.

Stables. The centrepiece of the building, the stables are a real architectural feat, the construction of which is attributed to Leonardo da Vinci. There are three of them, delimiting the courtyard of the castle; one of them houses the National Archaeological Museum of the Lomellina and another the Municipal Picture Gallery "Casimiro Ottone". The former houses the Roman remains found in the municipality, while the latter collects the paintings of local artists.

Covered passage. The only one of its kind in European castle architecture, the covered passage is a formidable achievement of medieval military engineering. Built by Luchino Visconti in 1347, in addition to its defensive functions, it responds to the very specific need of the Dukes of Milan to be able to enter and leave the castle without being seen.

Underground passages. A dense network of underground passages dating back to the ducal period connects the lower part of the city to the castle.