Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Castello Sforzesco
IAN DAGNALL / ALAMY ©
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The Architecture
To withstand any presumptuous challenges to their power, Milan's politicking
Sforzas gave the castle its robust medieval layout and character. Francesco invited
Florentine architect Filarete to design the high central tower in 1452 to soften the
appearance and affect an elegant residence rather than a barracks. Thick round
towers, faced with diamond-shaped
serizzo,
bolstered the ramparts, and Galeazzo
Maria later embellished the Rochetta and Ducal Courtyard with Renaissance por-
ticos. Inside the ducal apartments were endowed with elegant pavilion vaults, and
later decorated by Leonardo da Vinci, under the patronage of Ludovico Sforza
(1452-1508).
