The Sforzesco Castle is one of the major tourist attractions of Novara. Built in the second half of the 14th century during the rule of Galeazzo Visconti, it subsequently underwent a series of alterations and extensions which gave it a more refined Renaissance appearance.

The castle is constructed on a rectangular plan and is surrounded by thick walls built using river pebbles and large rectangular bricks, as was the custom in Roman and medieval times. The four corners are surmounted by towers, linked by secret passages. The north-east tower houses the Angelo Bozzola Museum displaying sculptures, paintings and graphics by the local artist. The south-west tower houses the Municipal Library.

The great Allea Park, laid out along the whole of the exterior of the Castle, is a marvellous green space within the city. The park possesses modern facilities while retaining the traditional design of the great gardens of the past.