Sforza quickly captures independent Pavia when its commander offers to surrender to him, and the Republic grudgingly allows him to keep it with the title of Count, fearing that the Pavians and their large arsenal might instead offer themselves to Venice if they refuse.

Sforza promises the Pavians no new taxes, respect for the old laws, payment for his hired officials, and to repair the city bridges and walls.

He keeps these promises faithfully and so wins over the people of Pavia, establishing his rulership.

Pavia, which had been previously almost a second capital to Milan, gives Sforza his own seat of power.

The city is also in a strategic location on the Po River, situated where it can block the Venetians from coming to the relief of the beleaguered Piacenza via water.