Valle Sabbia (IT)

FORTE CULTURA Station: Festung Rocca d'Anfo (IT), Photo: Superbass

The largest Napoleonic fort in Italy

Nature, architecture and history high above Lake Idro

The Rocca d'Anfo fortress sits majestically in the steep mountains on the western side of Lake Idro. It was built in the 15th century by the Republic of Venice and originally served as a defence and guard post on the border with present-day Trentino.

In the early 18th century, Napoleon expanded Rocca d'Anfo to become the largest Napoleonic fortress in Italy. Covering an area of around 50 hectares, it includes batteries, barracks, towers, a network of underground tunnels and passageways, and a belvedere as a lookout point.

Decommissioned during the First World War and left to fall into disrepair for decades, work to protect and reconstruct the unique fortifications began in around 2012. Today, some areas can already be visited again on guided tours, always combined with magnificent views of Lake Idro and the surrounding area.

The Rocca d'Anfo Museum, which is part of it, offers visitors a unique insight into the military past of the region as well as immersive experiences. Discover with FORTE CULTURA the unique fortress jewel above Lake Idro.