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Fortress of Mont'Alfonso: A Garfagnana Valley Stronghold

Explore the imposing Fortress of Mont'Alfonso in Garfagnana, a historic stronghold with breathtaking views and a vibrant cultural center.

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The Fortress of Mont'Alfonso, a commanding 16th-century defensive structure, sits atop a hill overlooking Castelnuovo di Garfagnana. Built by Alfonso II d'Este, it offers panoramic views of the Apuan Alps and Tuscan-Emilian Apennines. Today, it hosts cultural events and houses offices of the Provincial Administration and the Apuan Alps Regional Park.

A brief summary to Mount Alfonso Fortress

  • Monday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain within the fortress can be uneven and requires some walking.
  • Check the fortress's opening hours before visiting, as they may vary depending on the season.
  • Take the Ariosto Trail on foot, a ring trail dedicated to the famous poet and connecting Castelnuovo di Garfagnana to the fortress.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, the Fortress of Mont'Alfonso is accessible via a scenic walking trail known as the Ariosto Trail. The trail is approximately 1.5 kilometers long and takes around 20-30 minutes to walk. The path offers views of the surrounding landscape. No costs are associated with walking to the fortress.

  • Public Transport

    From Lucca, take a regional train to Castelnuovo di Garfagnana. Trains run hourly, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 2 minutes. Tickets cost between €4 and €9. From the Castelnuovo di Garfagnana train station, you can walk to the fortress (approximately 20-30 minutes) or take a local taxi. A taxi ride will cost approximately €10-€15.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Castelnuovo di Garfagnana. A taxi ride from the center of town to the Fortress of Mont'Alfonso takes about 10 minutes and costs approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic and time of day. Taxi services can be found near the train station or booked in advance.

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Discover more about Mount Alfonso Fortress

Perched on a hill overlooking the town, the Fortress of Mont'Alfonso is a majestic reminder of the Garfagnana's strategic importance throughout history. Constructed between 1579 and 1586 by Alfonso II d'Este, it was the last defensive stronghold of the Duchy of Ferrara, guarding the border with Lucca. The fortress was built upon a pre-existing medieval village, and when Duke Alfonso II visited the construction site, the fortress was renamed from Rocca di Monti to Fortezza di Mont'Alfonso in his honor. The fortress boasts impressive walls stretching over a kilometer, fortified by seven bastions. Inside, remnants of the 16th-century captain's house and troops' quarters offer a glimpse into the lives of those who once resided within its walls. Throughout its history, the fortress has served various purposes, including a prison in the 18th century and a summer residence for the Italian-Scottish Bechelli family in the 20th century. During World War II, it served as a place of civilian internment for Jewish refugees. Today, the Fortress of Mont'Alfonso is owned by the Province of Lucca and, after extensive restoration, is open to the public. It serves as a venue for exhibitions, cultural events, and concerts. Visitors can explore the grounds, admire the panoramic views, and learn about the fortress's rich history. The fortress is also home to offices of the Provincial Administration and the Apuan Alps Regional Park.

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