Rocca Sforzesca di Imola
Rising imperiously over the edge of the old town, the Rocca Sforzesca is one of the best-preserved Renaissance fortresses in northern Italy, remodelled by Leonardo da Vinci himself when he served as Cesare Borgia's military engineer in 1502. The moat is still intact, the drawbridge still works and the views from the corner towers are quietly spectacular.
History Written in Stone
Leonardo sketched the fortress's innovative star-shaped defensive layout during his time in Imola, and a reproduction of his famous 1502 city map — the first accurately scaled urban map ever drawn — is displayed inside the castle's civic museum.
The interior rooms trace Imola's history from the medieval commune through the Papal States era, with original frescoes, armour collections and period furniture that give the castle a lived-in rather than sterile museum feel.
Exploring the Ramparts
Climb to the top of the square keep for a panorama that sweeps from the Apennine foothills to the Po Valley flatlands — on a clear winter morning the snow-capped peaks above Bologna are visible to the south-west.
The wide dry moat has been converted into a public park and is a favourite spot for Imolesi families on weekend afternoons, giving the whole site a relaxed, un-touristy atmosphere.
More of Imola
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore Imola →
