This medieval castle, originally built just for defence, was adopted by the Gonzaga as their royal residence. It’s dominated by four towers, wide inner courts and gardens, and about 500 rooms. The complex actually consist of various separate buildings, one of which is the Castle. These contain a wide variety of artwork and historical artefacts (some of which are archaeological). Highlights include:

• The Renaissance style portico
• The frescoes in the room Stanza degli Sposi,
• The Hall of Emblems
• Hall of Acronyms
• The Room of Frieze - gold scrolls and leaves on a blue background.
• The Hall of Suns
• Apartment of Isabella d'Este – beautiful furniture and paintings
• Apartment of the Tapestries

• Call the museum to see if you can celebrate your birthday, wedding there.
• Check out the bookshop.

Ticket Prices: € 4.00

• Children 6-18
• seniors over 65
• groups 7-25 people
• academics/a second degree in art history, archeology, Academy of Fine Arts
• foreign students

Free

• Under 6
• Journalists

• Buses 4C, 4S, 4T, 6,12 stop Duomo
• Buses 6, 15, 35, 39,148 stop Mantova Viale Mincio

• Pane Al Pane Di Leonardi Maria Cristina
• Osteria Piazza Sordello 26

Love this? Explore the entire list of places to visit in La Spezia before you plan your trip.

Fancy a good night's sleep after a tiring day? Check out where to stay in La Spezia and book an accommodation of your choice.