The Castello Estense or castello di San Michele is a moated medieval castle in the center of Ferrara, northern Italy. It consists of a large block with four corner towers.
Exterior view and moat
The western drawbridge. The tower features machicolations near the top.
The tower that was damaged in the 2012 earthquake
Exterior view, southern side
The House of Este is a European dynasty of North Italian origin whose members ruled parts of Italy and Germany for many centuries.
George I, by the Grace of God, of Great Britain, France and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, Prince-Elector of Hanover, Duke of Brunswick. Portrait c. 1714, the year of his accession, by Sir Godfrey Kneller.
Borso d'Este, the first Duke of Ferrara, Modena and Reggio
Leonello d'Este, by Pisanello
Ercole I d'Este