Piemonte Italia

Among the most important examples of military architecture from the Italian 18th century, it is one of the most significant in Europe. After it was ceded to the Savoy in 1713, Alessandria was fortified to the point of becoming one of the most relevant strategic spots in Piemonte. Designed by the military architect Ignazio Bertola, the Cittadella’s (Citadel) construction began in 1728 during the reign of Victor Amadeus II. The work continued with Charles Emanuel III and was completed by generals Marescot and Chasseloup during the mid 19th century. What strikes one is the grandiosity of the boundary walls which have a three kilometer perimeter and a hexagonal layout fortified with ramparts in the front. The star design, which extends over a 30,000 kilometer area, is marked off by six bulwarks surrounded by moats. The Citadella has even welcomed, among others, Giuseppe Garibaldi who stayed there before his exile to Caprera.