Castello Estense, Ferrara

Don’t miss the medieval dungeons of Castello Estense, a moated structure in the center of the city. The castle was begun in the 14th century, after a violent riot convinced Nicollo II d’Este, a local nobleman, that his palace was no longer sufficiently protected to guarantee his family’s safety. Construction began in 1385 under the direction of architect Bartolino da Novara, and a wooden passageway soon linked the Este family’s old residence to the new castle, allowing residents to flee from one to the other. Though many of its sections are now used as government offices, you can still visit the castle’s cross-vaulted living rooms, court kitchens, chapels, and the claustrophobic dungeons, which were once used as prison cells and torture chambers. The site also includes a small cafe and a bookshop. Our Ferrara trip itinerary maker makes visiting Castello Estense and other Ferrara attractions simple, and helps you make a travel plan personal to you.