Palmanova Fortress, Star-shaped fortress in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy.
Description
Palmanova Fortress is a star-shaped defensive structure in Friuli-Venezia Giulia with nine angular bastions connected by protective walls arranged in a geometric pattern with three monumental entrance gates. Deep moats surround the entire layout, highlighting its Renaissance military design.
History
The Venetian Republic founded the fortress in 1593 to strengthen its northeastern border and resist enemy attacks. Between 1806 and 1813, additional fortifications were added during French control.
Culture
The main square holds a cathedral completed in the early 1600s with an unusually short bell tower, intentionally designed this way to avoid interfering with military sightlines. This choice shows how civil buildings were shaped by military needs.
Practical
Visitors can walk daily on the ramparts, examine the bastions, and learn about Renaissance military architecture. Early morning is best when crowds are smaller and pathways are easier to navigate.
Did you know?
The entire city follows a precise star-shaped plan with streets radiating from the center, creating equal distances between all defensive positions. This thoughtful layout makes it a rare example of geometric military planning that remains visible today.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Palmanova).
Friuli Venezia Giulia is found between the Adriatic Sea and the mountain peaks. This part of northeastern Italy has port cities with history from Austria-Hungary, Roman sites listed as world heritage, castles on the edge of the sea, and villages tucked in the mountains. Trieste, with its squares...
Cathedral
149 m
San Sebastiano
1.6 kmCivico Museo Storico
142 mMuseo Storico Militare
28 mPorta Cividale - Dongione Veneto
241 m
Acquedotto veneziano
564 mCamminamenti e fortificazioni delle cinte murarie
257 mStatue, Work of art
118 mStatue, Work of art
40 mStrumento da Ficcar Pali
84 mDella lieva nell'asso della ruota
90 mStrumento da pestare la polvere
10 mStatue, Work of art
95 mStatue, Work of art
120 mStrumento con due trombe per alzare l'acqua
6 mStatue, Work of art
90 mStatue, Work of art
119 mStatue, Work of art
88 mStrumento per portar la terra
89 mStatue, Work of art
82 mStatue, Work of art
79 mStatue, Work of art
130 mWork of art, statue
117 mStatue, Work of art
34 mStatue, Work of art
46 mWork of art, statue
40 mBelvedere di Borgo Udine
554 mScenic viewpoint
421 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes