Castello Sforzesco (Vigevano)

In the enchanting town of Vigevano, nestled in the Lombardy region of Italy, lies the majestic Castello Sforzesco. This sprawling fortress, with its roots deeply embedded in the rich tapestry of Italian history, covers an impressive area of over two hectares. The castle is not just a testament to medieval architecture but also a vibrant hub of cultural heritage, housing the Pinacoteca Casimiro Ottone, the National Archaeological Museum of Lomellina, and the International Footwear Museum Pietro Bertolini.

The History of Castello Sforzesco

The history of Castello Sforzesco is intricately intertwined with that of Vigevano, once known as Vicogebuin. Until the mid-15th century, the area where the castle now stands was home to the ancient village, complete with its initial town hall and primitive churches. Originally, the village was protected by rudimentary earth and wood defenses, which were later replaced by a stone wall. On the eastern side stood a square-shaped castle, initially constructed from wood and later rebuilt with brick walls before the 10th century. This structure, known as the maschio, served as a refuge for forages and animals and a last line of defense in times of danger. Over time, it evolved into a noble residence for the Visconti family.

The Visconti Era

In 1319 and again in 1337, Luchino Visconti, the podestà of Vigevano, incorporated the village into his territorial dominion, transforming it into a defensive stronghold. By 1341, he had constructed a defensive fortress, initially called inferiore and later rocca vecchia, on the eastern edge of the expanding village. Concurrently, the old castle was remodeled into a new fortification, which became the ducal residence. This quadrangular structure featured crenellated walls, three main buildings, corner towers, and a central entrance tower. The expansion and beautification of the maschio continued throughout the Visconti rule.

In 1347, the two fortresses were connected by the strada coperta, a fortified covered road stretching 164 meters long and 7.5 meters wide, allowing rapid access between the castle and the surrounding countryside.

The Sforza Period

With the end of Visconti rule in 1447, the citizens of Vigevano briefly enjoyed communal freedom, only to be besieged by Bartolomeo Colleoni and Francesco I Sforza in 1449. After the conquest, the Sforza family repaired the siege damage and expanded the maschio, incorporating the remnants of a destroyed southeast tower. Galeazzo Maria Sforza, who succeeded his father Francesco in 1466, initiated further transformations, converting the maschio into a ducal palace and allowing the construction of houses in the outer moat.

Under Ludovico il Moro, born in Vigevano, the castle underwent significant enhancements. The courtyard, originally occupied by the old village, was cleared, and new structures, including the third stable and the kitchen building, were added. The maschio was expanded with a hanging garden, designed by Bramante, featuring two porticoed buildings. Although the garden and one of the porticoes have since been altered, the southern building, known as the loggia delle dame, remains. Bramante also contributed to the castle's decorative frescoes and the elevation of the ancient communal tower, which was modified to house the bells from the demolished church of Santa Maria.

19th Century Modifications

The 19th century brought significant changes to Castello Sforzesco. Before 1824, the western moat was filled in, and the maschio's curtain wall and ravelin were demolished. In 1824, the gate leading to the church of San Pietro Martire was closed. After a partial collapse in 1855, the central part of the maschio was rebuilt in Tudor style by engineer Inverardi, who also designed a neogothic entrance from Corso della Repubblica. The second half of the century saw further modifications, including the construction of a covered riding arena, the transformation of the hanging garden into the cortile della duchessa, and various structural adaptations for military use.

Restorations and Museums

After a decade of abandonment following military use, restoration work began in 1980. The National Archaeological Museum of Lomellina, inaugurated in 1998 and expanded in 2018, showcases archaeological finds from the Lomellina region. In 2009, the International Footwear Museum Pietro Bertolini was relocated to the rooms above the second stable, featuring a rich collection donated by industrialist Pietro Bertolini in 1948.

Exploring Castello Sforzesco

Visitors to Castello Sforzesco can explore a variety of structures, including the entrance tower, known as the Bramante Tower, three large stables, the neogothic entrance atrium, the falconry building, the loggia bridge, the main building (maschio), and the grand covered road. The complex appears as a unified structure with many articulations, offering a fascinating journey through centuries of history.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual tourist, Castello Sforzesco in Vigevano promises an unforgettable experience, blending medieval architecture with rich cultural heritage. Its walls echo the stories of the Visconti and Sforza families, making it a must-visit destination in the heart of Lombardy.