The Castello Mediceo of Melegnano: The Jewel of the City in the South Metropolitan Area of Milan
The Castello Mediceo of Melegnano, an imposing fortress dating back to the 14th century, represents one of the most emblematic places in the historical and artistic panorama not only of our local area, but also in the Lombardy region. Built at the behest of Bernabò Visconti and later enlarged by the Sforza family, during the 16th century the castle became the property of the Medici family, the famous Florentine dynasty that left an indelible mark on the history of Italian art and culture, hence the name ‘Castello Mediceo’.
The castle was built in Gothic-Renaissance style and is surrounded by a moat and a drawbridge. Inside the castle, some original features such as the crenellated walls, arched windows and frescoed rooms can still be seen.
The Melegnano Castle, an imposing monument characteristic of late medieval Lombardy, is tangible evidence of the Visconti era. Its massive, U-shaped, four-sided structure evokes historical memories of great importance.
According to historical sources, the castle originally had a quadrilateral plan with four towers surrounding a large inner courtyard. The first building, known as the receptum, was built in 1243. It was later enlarged under Matteo I Visconti, and with Bernabò Visconti it took on its typical quadrilateral structure, with angular towers rising mightily towards the sky.
In 1512, the castle changed ownership passing to Marquis Brivio. After twenty years, in 1532, it became the property of Gian Giacomo Medici of the Nosigia family of Milan. This change of ownership marked an important turning point for the village of Melegnano, which from that moment on was elevated to the rank of marquisate.
In 1981, the castle, by then a historic symbol of the place, was sold by the Medici to the Province of Milan. Two years later, in 1983, some rooms were exchanged for the Melegnano municipal administration. This change of ownership represents the beginning of a new chapter for the castle: a period of restoration and revitalisation.
Restoration of the castle began in 1998, initially focusing on the surrounding areas and later on the inner rooms, embellished with frescoes dating back to the mid-16th century. This led to the reopening of the building in October 2001.
On the occasion of the Pardon Fair following the reopening, the civic collection named after Don Cesare Amelli (1924-2002) was inaugurated, as a further tribute to the rich cultural and artistic history of the place. Since then, the castle has not only been a historical symbol but also a place of culture and learning.
FAQ Castello Mediceo of Melegnano
Q: Can I visit the Castello Mediceo of Melegnano on another occasion besides the FAI days?
A: Absolutely yes! The Castello Mediceo of Melegnano is open to the public all year round, except Tuesdays. Opening hours are as follows:
Opening hours
Winter period (standard time)
Saturday and Sunday: 2.30pm – 5.30pm
Guided tour 3.30pm
Summer period (summer time)
Saturday 2.30pm – 5.30pm
Guided tour 3.30pm
Sunday 3pm – 6.30pm
Guided tours 3.30pm and 5pm
Closure of the Mediceo Castle in Melegnano
from July 15th to August 31st
from November 15th to the end of February
May 1st and midweek holidays
Entrance
Adults – 7€
Children from 6 to 16 years – 5€
Groups (minimum 10 people): 5€
Groups with reservation (minimum 10 people) on weekdays: 7€
The entrance ticket includes a guided tour
Information
Visits for groups on weekdays by prior booking at least 200 days in advance to: info@prolocomelegnano.it
Further information: www.prolocomelegnano.it
prolocomelegnano@gmail.com
www.comune.melegnano.mi.it
facebook: @prolocomelegnano
Any changes to opening hours will be reported at the sites indicated above
Q: Can I book a guided tour of the castle?
A: Yes, you can book a guided tour of the Castello Mediceo of Melegnano. Guided tours are organised by the Amateur Historical Guides of Pro Melegnano – Pro Loco. To book a guided tour, you can write to the email address: prolocomelegnano@gmail.com
Alternatively, you can visit the castle without booking. Opening hours are as follows:
Guided tours organised by the Pro Melegnano – Pro Loco Amateur Historical Guides.
For bookings, write to: prolocomelegnano@gmail.com
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Stay in Melegnano with AN Hotels
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Experience the Castello Mediceo of Melegnano with AN Hotels
Melegnano is a jewel set in the Parco Agricolo Sud Milano. In Melegnano Art and Culture combine with Nature. Join us at AN Hotels to discover the Castello Mediceo of Melegnano.
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AN Hotel Melegnano
Email: info@an-hotels.com
Phone: +390280012312
Address: Via Don Dossetti, 2 Carpiano, Milano 20074
