Cittadella di Torino, Military citadel in Turin, Italy
Cittadella di Torino is a pentagonal fortress with five bastions connected by thick walls that form its main defensive structure. At its center sits a double-helix well that supplied water to the garrison during prolonged sieges.
Duke Emanuele Filiberto commissioned architect Francesco Paciotto to build this defensive structure between 1564 and 1570, following the move of the capital from Chambéry to Turin. The fortress was created during a period when strong defensive works were essential to protect the new ducal seat.
The Mastio entrance building houses an artillery museum that draws visitors into Turin's military past. The collection shows how these weapons and equipment were used across centuries of conflict.
Visitors can explore the fortress through guided tours that cover both museum floors, showcasing weapons, armor, and military equipment across different periods. The accessible areas provide a good overview of the fortification layout and collection without requiring extensive walking.
During the 1706 siege, soldier Pietro Micca saved his city at the ultimate cost by detonating explosives in the underground tunnels to stop the enemy advance, losing his life in the process. This act of sacrifice is still remembered in Turin and stands as a testament to the human courage within these walls.
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