Fenestrelle Fort

Fenestrelle Fort in the Chisone Valley is a fortress complex made up of several forts, redoubts and batteries, climbing the hillside over several kilometres between roughly 1,100 and 1,800 m in altitude. The engineer Ignazio Bertola designed it in the 18th century to secure the border with France; construction began in 1728 and, with an interruption, continued until 1850. A covered staircase of around 4,000 steps links the complex. Because of its length it is also known as the “Great Wall of Piedmont”, and a museum website calls it the largest fortified complex in Europe.

After the Second World War the fort fell into decay; since 1990 the Progetto San Carlo association has worked on its restoration. Visits are by guided tour, including a route following in the footsteps of De Amicis. You should allow at least half a day and bring sturdy footwear. Opening times and dates can change, so check beforehand.

According to Siviaggia, Victor Amadeus II commissioned the complex in 1727; it consists of three forts (San Carlo, Tre Denti, Delle Valli) and seven redoubts and climbs about 635 metres in height. Besides the covered staircase there is the open Scala Reale with 500 steps. The guided tours, which you should book in advance, lead among other places to secret passages, old cells and the Governor’s rooms.