Castello Estense was built because of a revolt in 1385 when Niccolò II d’Este was forced to realise he needed to build a mighty fortress to protect himself and his family against the people. It is an impressive fortress with a moat, drawbridge and towers and an elevated passageway that still exists. This joined the military fortress to the Marquises Palace (Palazzo Municipale as it is known today). The risk of riots died down over the centuries allowing the fortress to become a fabulous home of the court, with roof terraces, marble balconies and a Renaissance style courtyard.
