Built as a military outpost in the 14th century on the orders of Francesco I Gonzaga, fifty years later this castle was converted into a noble residence.

Isabella d’Este, one of the most influential women of the Italian Renaissance, lived here for a long time. The castle is designed as a square base with corner towers and is surrounded by a moat crossed by three drawbridges.

As part of the palaces built by the Gonzaga family as their ducal residence, it is also one of the most important buildings in Mantua from an artistic and historical standpoint.

But the castle’s greatest treasures are tucked away inside, like the Camera Picta
(The bridal chamber), located in the north-east tower. This narrow room was turned into a work of art realized by Andrea Mantegna in nine years (1465-1474). The stunning frescoes give visitors the impression of being in an open portico overlooking the beautiful countryside.