Fort Montecchio-Lusardi, Colico, Italy

Fort Montecchio-Lusardi is a military fort situated in Colico, built between 1911 and 1914. It is the only Italian fort from World War I which has been preserved intact with its original weapons. The main function of the fort was to control the roads of Spluga, Maloja and Stelvio, in case the Central Powers decided to invade northern Italy, violating the neutrality of Switzerland.

The fort was one of the strongholds in a complex barrier system which extended up to Monte Legnone, though it remained inactive throughout the World War. During the World War II the fort also never entered a major action: the only gunshots were fired after the fort was occupied by the partisans, at a German column that marched along the opposite bank of the lake. The fort was later used as a weapons depot and eventually transferred to the state property.

Attractions in fort are four French 149 mm guns, with a range of 14 km, each rotating inside a cast-iron dome. The fort is divided into two parts: the lower area contains housing and powder magazines and the upper part contains guns. The two areas are linked by a curved gallery.

References:

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Castles and fortifications in Italy

User Reviews

Jacopo Casiraghi (10 months ago)
Beautiful fort, unique in its kind as the gun battery is still working. Very professional and kind guides.

Edita Adamcikova (10 months ago)
Brilliant tour every hour from 2pm. Italian and English. Great experience!

Will (13 months ago)
Stunning views, tremendous experience. I would highly recommend Edit: After reading some of the negative reviews, I feel compelled to add a few clarifications. The tour guide was attentive and spoke perfect English. Our group consisted of two English speakers and two Italians, and the guide ensured everyone understood the information, answering questions and providing clarifications. Those suggesting lowering the price for a solid hour of a personal tour, priced at 8 EUR per person, are simply missing the value of a remarkably well-maintained and significant moment. It’s a reminder that some people will find reasons to complain about anything. While I wish I could respond directly to the comments, I see that the owner is doing an excellent job addressing them. The pictures are great, but to truly appreciate the tour, you need to hear the guide and experience it in person. Asking your own questions enhances the experience. Thank you for a fantastic and detailed tour. It wouldn't have been the same without the guide; signage alone wouldn't suffice.

Deniece Anthoney (16 months ago)
Remarkable Fort. For all those who are WW1 /WW2 enthusiasts, this is a must. Fantastic tour guide who was more than happy to answer any additional questions. Great views from the tops well.

Anamaria Olaru (4 years ago)
Very cool place to visit and find out all you want about a military fort. Bonus - the place is intact

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Visby Cathedral (also known as St. Mary’s Church) is the only survived medieval church in Visby. It was originally built for German merchants and inaugurated in 1225. Around the year 1350 the church was enlarged and converted into a basilica. The two-storey magazine was also added then above the nave as a warehouse for merchants.

Following the Reformation, the church was transformed into a parish church for the town of Visby. All other churches were abandoned. Shortly after the Reformation, in 1572, Gotland was made into its own Diocese, and the church designated its cathedral.

There is not much left of the original interior. The font is made of local red marble in the 13th century. The pulpit was made in Lübeck in 1684. There are 400 graves under the church floor.

Fort Montecchio-Lusardi

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