Fortezza

A mighty fortress is catching your eyes when travelling to Fortezza.

> Altitude: 749 metres above sea level

Between 1833 and 1839 an impressive granite fortress was built and named after the Austrian emperor Franz 1: “Franzensfeste”. When after World War 1 whole South Tyrol came to Italy, the name “Franzensfeste” turned into its Italian equivalent “Fortezza”. For a brief period, the fortress was known as the strongest one all over Europe, even though it never served as a battle site or seat of war. In 1940, right in front of the fortress a huge artificial lake was created.

Including the hamlets Le Cave, Mezzaselva (see image) and Prà di Sopra, the village serves as an important communication junction as all major trains stop in the place. Moreover, Fortezza is an ideal starting point for hikes to Bolzano or near-by Val Pusteria. And even mountain bikers can look forward to numerous tracks…

> We suggest: Go for a rafting tour and enjoy shopping in the city of Bressanone!