Guided Tour: Discover Sforza Castle and Michelangelo's Art

Immerse yourself in the rich Renaissance history of Milan with this captivating guided tour, revealing the enduring legacies of Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci in the heart of this vibrant city. While Florence is often celebrated as the cradle of the Renaissance, Milan, too, holds remarkable treasures from this extraordinary period of art and culture. This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore these hidden gems with an expert guide who will bring to life the stories of these great masters and their contributions to Milan's cultural heritage. Your journey begins at the imposing Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), a stunning example of Renaissance architecture located just steps away from the iconic Duomo di Milano. As you approach the castle’s grand entrance, you will be struck by its formidable walls and towers, which once served as a fortress for the powerful Sforza family who ruled Milan during the Renaissance. Inside, the castle houses one of Michelangelo's most poignant and moving works: the Pietà Rondanini. This sculpture, created in the final days of Michelangelo's life at the age of 89, is a testament to his incredible skill and his deep emotional connection to his art. Unlike his earlier, more polished works, the Pietà Rondanini is notable for its unfinished appearance, which reveals the artist’s evolving vision and his struggle with mortality. As you stand before this masterpiece, your guide will share insights into Michelangelo's creative process and the significance of this piece as his final artistic statement. You'll learn about the unique features of the sculpture, including its raw, expressive forms and the intimate depiction of Mary holding the body of Christ, which reflect Michelangelo's deep spirituality and personal reflections on life and death. The tour also delves into the life and work of another Renaissance genius, Leonardo da Vinci, who left an indelible mark on Milan. As you explore the castle and its surroundings, your guide will recount fascinating stories of Leonardo’s time in Milan, where he worked under the patronage of Ludovico Sforza, Duke of Milan. Learn about Leonardo’s contributions to the city, from his innovative engineering projects and architectural designs to his famous fresco, "The Last Supper," housed in the nearby Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Discover how Leonardo’s artistic and scientific endeavors influenced the Renaissance in Milan and beyond. Your guide will bring to life the narrative of Leonardo's time in the city, including his friendships, rivalries, and the profound impact he had on the cultural landscape of Milan. After admiring Michelangelo's Pietà Rondanini, continue your exploration of Sforza Castle, where you will have the opportunity to visit its beautiful courtyards and interiors.