The monument
Built by the Kingdom of Piedmont-Sardinia between 1728 and 1850 to close off the Chisone valley against France, Fenestrelle Fort is a complex of three forts (San Carlo, Tre Denti, Valli) joined by a continuous wall that climbs over 3 km and 600 m of elevation. Its covered staircase has nearly 4,000 steps. It is the largest fortified structure in Europe and a symbol of the province of Turin.
The visit
- Guided visits only, from the one-hour walk in Fort San Carlo to the “Passeggiata reale”, a full-day hike along the whole wall (good fitness required).
- Exhibitions, re-enactments and events in summer.
- Bring walking shoes and water; there is little shade.
Practical information
- By road: about 1 h 40 via the Fréjus tunnel, Oulx, Sestriere and the descent of the Chisone valley (mountain road), or via Turin and Pinerolo.
- Opening times and visits: booking advised on the official website; reduced opening in winter.
- Combine with Sestriere (30 minutes away) for a loop.