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Fortezza della Brunella: A Renaissance Fortress in Aulla

Explore the Fortezza della Brunella in Aulla: a Renaissance fortress with stunning views and a natural history museum.

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The Fortezza della Brunella, an imposing Renaissance-era fortress, stands guard over Aulla, Italy, offering panoramic views of the Lunigiana region. Housing the Museum of Natural History of Lunigiana, it blends military architecture with natural history.

A brief summary to Fortezza della Brunella

  • Monday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the fortress involves walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they may vary depending on the season.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the fortress's history and the surrounding area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Aulla, the Fortezza della Brunella is a walk uphill. Follow the signs for Fortezza della Brunella. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes, offering views of the town.

  • Public Transport

    From Aulla train station, take a bus towards the center of Aulla. From there, follow the walking directions to the Fortezza della Brunella. Bus tickets cost around €1-€3.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Aulla train station to the Fortezza della Brunella typically costs between €5 and €7. The journey takes only a few minutes.

Unlock the Best of Fortezza della Brunella

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Discover more about Fortezza della Brunella

The Fortezza della Brunella, located in Aulla, is a commanding military structure built during the Renaissance to defend the Lunigiana area. Perched on a high, rocky spur at the confluence of the Magra and Aulella rivers, the fortress dominates Aulla's historic center. Its strategic position controlled key routes and Apennine passes. The fortress's features are typical of Renaissance defensive architecture, though its original core may date back to the 13th century. Jacopo Ambrogio Malaspina and Giovanni delle Bande Nere are noted as principals in its construction. Around 1860, it was sold to private individuals before being acquired by the English Waterfield family in 1920, who used it as a residence. The Italian State acquired the fortress in 1977 and entrusted it to the municipality of Aulla. Today, the Fortezza della Brunella houses the Lunigiana Natural History Museum, which showcases the region's history and environmental transformations. Visitors can explore the fortress through guided tours, examining exhibits and learning about the area's biodiversity. Sigeric, a cooperative of environmental guides, organizes activities inside the Fortress.

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