Forte Fuentes

Forte Fuentes is located in Colico, a small town at the top of Lake Como. If you are in this area, we suggest you visit the fort, whose ancient history will fascinate you and take you on a journey back in time.

In 1603 the Spanish governor of the Duchy of Milan, Don Pedro Enriquez de Acevedo Count of Fuentes, ordered the construction of this Fort. The fortification was built on Montecchio Est (one of the three hills of Colico) due to its strategic position at the mouth of two valleys, known as Valtellina and Valchiavenna. From there, it was possible to control possible attacks from the neighbouring Grisons (Switzerland). The Fort was completed in 1609 when it became fully operational. It then had a troubled history, until 1796 when french troops were sent by Napoleon to destroy it, thus making it unusable. However, in 1916 the Fort was revived again because eight cannons were supposed to be brought on the top of the hill to help the nearby Forte Montecchio Nord during the First World War. When you visit Forte Fuentes you can learn about the life of the 17th century soldiers. Along the route you will see the remains of all the main buildings and you will read all the information you need to better understand the history of this ancient place on some panels written in english and german. It is possible to access the fort during the opening hours and on dates that you can find on the Facebook page or the official website of Forte Fuentes and Forte Montecchio, cultural heritages both managed by the Museum of the White War in Adamello. You can leave your car in a free parking lot at the base of the hill and from there you can go up along the indicated path. About halfway along the path you will find the ticket office, surrounded by a wonderful "Roccolo" from the early 1900s and recently renovated. Once purchased the entrance ticket (€7.00 for adults and €3.00 for children aged 6-17) you will have access to the Fort, the Roccolo and also to a picnic and relaxation area surrounded by nature.

There will be a guide who will provide you with all the necessary information and will also be able to give you a brief historical introduction to make your visit easier. From the ticket office you will continue your journey along a path that will take you both to see the ancient main entrance with a drawbridge (no longer accessible) and to access the Fort. The majestic ruins will accompany you throughout the visit and there will also be wonderful views of the lake, the river Adda and the nearby Pian di Spagna. Forte Fuentes is the ideal destination for everyone, families, enthusiasts and groups of friends. You can have a packed lunch in the picnic area and enjoy a day full of history and nature.