The largest fortress in the Alps
Located in the Val Chisone valley, the fortress looks as if it were part of the mountain itself. It was built from 1728 to the mid-19th century according to the plans of the military engineer Ignazio Bertola. It consists of three main fortifications (San Carlo, Tre Denti, Valli) connected by walls, corridors and staircases.
Its greatest pride is the Scala Coperta, a covered staircase that winds like a stone snake up the mountainside.
History shrouded in mystery
Forte di Fenestrelle was built as a line of defence for the Kingdom of Savoy against French invasions. Although it never saw a major battle, it served as a military fortress, armoury and prison. V 19. in the 19th century, it held political prisoners from the Two Sicilies (Italian: Regno delle Due Sicilie, a kingdom that existed in southern Italy from 1816 to 1861), and during World War II, prisoners of war.
Local legends even claim that at night the footsteps of a French general can be heard on the staircase, who supposedly died here.
Tours for adventurers and romantics alike
Today, the Forte di Fenestrelle has been carefully restored and is one of the most visited monuments in Piedmont. There are several routes to choose from:
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Short (1 hour) - visit the core of the San Carlo Fortress, including the underground.
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Medium (3 hours) - ascend the covered staircase and selected parts of the complex.
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Full day (7 hours) - complete ascent from the lower gate to the upper Valli fortress, with panoramic views of the Alps.
When and why to go
The best time to visit is from spring to autumn, when the weather favours mountain hiking and the fortress is fully open. The combination of history, military architecture and Alpine panoramas makes this place unique not only in Italy but in Europe.
For history buffs it is a living textbook, for photographers a paradise and for travellers a challenge.
Tips for visiting
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Footwear: Don't forget comfortable shoes for hiking - the stairs are long and sometimes uneven.
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Clothing.
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Booking: For longer routes, it's best to book a tour in advance.
Interesting fact
The Forte di Fenestrelle was voted the symbol of the province of Turin in 1999, and in 2007 it was listed as one of the 100 most endangered monuments in the world.
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