The Forte di Fenestrelle (TO) was created in 1727 by the engineer Ignazio Bertola who, responding to a request by King Victor Amedeo II, presented a project for an imposing wall studded with multiple fortified buildings, to close the Valley of Chisone to foreign invaders.
Its architecture is truly imposing, stretching over 3km along the mountain ridge, with a total surface area of 1,350,000 sqm and a approx. 600m difference in height between the first and last building. Building work began in Spring 1728 and continued for over a century.
The fortified complex has 8 defensive buildings (large like Forte San Carlo and smaller like Ridotta Santa Barbara) and each has a specific role in the defensive strategy. The structures are linked together by inner and outer routes and also by a covered staircase of 4,000 steps which is protected by 2m thick walls that rise up on the mountain slopes, like a long tunnel stretching out over 2km.
Previously also a State prison, the fortress was abandoned after WWII. The Association Progetto San Carlo opened the monumental complex to the public several years ago and it has become a place of interest for visitors and researchers.
Film Commission Torino Piemonte
Via Cagliari 42 — 10153 Torino
Phone: +39 011 2379201
Fax: +39 011 2379298
Email: info@fctp.it
