Este Castle

Built in 1385 by Bartolino da Novara, the Castle is one of the major sights in Ferrara. It is joined to the Palazzo Ducale by a covered and elevated passageway still in existence. From the 16th century onwards it became the new court residence, involving radical changes in the structure of the fortress, such as the replacement of the merlons with marble balustrades, the building of the roof-terraces on the towers, the addition of a storey and creation of spacious apartments. It thus acquired the unmistakable appearance which still remains today.

Inside you can visit the old more..

Palazzo Municipale

The building of the Town Hall or Palazzo Municipale (formerly known as the Palazzo Ducale) started in 1243. This was the residence of the Este family up to the 16th century, when the court moved to the Castle.

Palazzo Schifanoia

The Palazzo was built outside of the ancient walls by order of Alberto V d'Este in 1385 and was later converted and extended, above all during the era of Borso. The most famous and interesting room is definitely the "Sala dei Mesi" (Room of the Months), frescoed by Ferrara painters of the 15th century (Francesco del Cossa, Ercole de' Roberti, Cosmè Tura etc.).

Nowadays the Palazzo houses the Civic Museum of Ancient Art, with its many collections: archaeology, coins, bronzes and plaques etc. Particularly fine are the illuminated antiphonaries, the collection of medals, with more..

Cathedral

Sculpted column of Cathedral
photo by: Hector Ezelhaar

The main facade of the cathedral of Ferrara is one of the main attractions of town. 
The cathedral dates from the 12th century.