# Castello Estense

- **Country:** Italy
- **Coordinates:** 45.009587, 11.739795
- **Location Text:** Ferrara

Castello Estense, also known as the Castle of St. Michael, is a prominent moated medieval fortress located in the heart of Ferrara, within the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy. Construction of this imposing structure began on September 29, 1385, commissioned by Niccolò II d'Este following a violent popular revolt that exposed the vulnerability of the ruling family's previous residence. Designed initially by architect Bartolino da Novara, the castle features a large central block fortified by four corner towers and was originally connected to the municipal palace by an aerial passageway to ensure the safety of the nobility during civil unrest.

Over the centuries, as Ferrara expanded and its defensive walls moved outward, the castle's military function diminished, leading to significant architectural transformations under the Renaissance style. Following a damaging fire in 1544, Duke Ercole II ordered extensive renovations led by Girolamo da Carpi, who gave the fortress its current external appearance while the interior was adapted into luxurious apartments for the court. The site later served as the residence for the Papal Legate after the Este family relocated to Modena, reflecting its enduring importance as an administrative and residential hub through various political eras.

Today, the Castello Estense is owned by the Province of Ferrara and stands as a well-preserved historical landmark open to the public. Although it suffered damage to one of its towers during the 2012 Northern Italy earthquakes, the structure remains a defining symbol of the city. Visitors can explore its rich history, from its origins as a desperate defensive measure against riotous citizens to its evolution into a sophisticated ducal residence, making it a crucial destination for understanding the cultural and political heritage of the House of Este.

![Photo of Castello Estense](http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Castello%20Estense%20%282%29%20%28Arqu%C3%A0%20Polesine%29.jpg)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castello_Estense (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)