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Forte Stella: A Star-Shaped Sentinel

Explore Forte Stella, a historic star-shaped fortress in Monte Argentario, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Tuscany's past.

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Forte Stella, a 16th-century coastal fortification near Porto Ercole, offers stunning Tyrrhenian Sea views. Built by the Spanish, this star-shaped fortress once served as a key part of the Argentario promontory's defensive system, communicating with distant towers via visual signals. Today, visitors can explore its walls and enjoy panoramic vistas.

A brief summary to Fort Stella

  • Monte Argentario, Province of Grosseto, 58019, IT
  • Visit website
  • Monday 10:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 10:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 10:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 10:30 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 10:30 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the fort's uneven surfaces and exploring the surrounding area.
  • Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of the coastline and the unique star-shaped architecture of the fort.
  • Check for contemporary art exhibitions being held at the fort for a blend of history and modern culture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Porto Ercole, Forte Stella is accessible by foot. The walk involves a steady uphill climb, taking approximately 20-30 minutes. Follow the signs towards Forte Stella, enjoying the scenic views along the way. Note that the path can be steep in sections. Admission to the fort is EUR 2 [i].

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct bus to Forte Stella, you can take a bus from Porto Santo Stefano to Porto Ercole. From the bus stop in Porto Ercole, follow the walking directions to Forte Stella. Bus tickets cost approximately EUR 1-2. From the center of Porto Ercole, Forte Stella is accessible by foot. The walk involves a steady uphill climb, taking approximately 20-30 minutes. Follow the signs towards Forte Stella, enjoying the scenic views along the way. Note that the path can be steep in sections. Admission to the fort is EUR 2 [i].

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Porto Ercole. A taxi ride from the center of Porto Ercole to the closest accessible point to Forte Stella will cost approximately EUR 10-15. From there, a short walk is still required to reach the fort. Admission to the fort is EUR 2 [i].

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Discover more about Fort Stella

Forte Stella, a captivating coastal fortification, graces the landscape near Porto Ercole in Monte Argentario. Perched on a promontory west of the town, not far from Sbarcatello beach, this historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the past and stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Constructed by the Spanish in the latter half of the 16th century, Forte Stella was a strategic stronghold within the 'Stato dei Presidi'. It formed a vital link in the coastal defense network, capable of communicating visually with Torre dell'Avvoltore to the west, the Rocca Aldobrandesca of Porto Ercole, and even the Tower of San Pancrazio on the Ansedonia promontory to the east. The fort's location was carefully chosen on the site of the earlier Fort Sant'Ippolito, dating back to the Renaissance period. The imposing structure features two fortresses, an external one with a quadrangular shape and an internal one with a six-pointed star plan. Visitors can explore the fort's interior, walk along the raised wall walkways, and imagine the lives of the soldiers who once stood guard. The site also offers a breathtaking panorama of the coastline, stretching from the southern shores of Argentario to Capo Linaro near Civitavecchia. While its military functions ceased in the 19th century, Forte Stella has been carefully restored and now stands as a testament to the region's rich history. The fort sometimes hosts contemporary art exhibitions, adding a modern twist to its historical ambiance.

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