Venetian Works of Defence Between the 16th and 17th Centuries
the historic Republic of Venice's works to protect its borders
Photo: Peschiera del Garda, Veneto
Venetian Works of Defence Between the 16th and 17th Centuries: Stato da Terra - Western Stato da Mar
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Latest page update: 24 January 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The Venetian Works of Defence Between the 16th and 17th Centuries: Stato da Terra - Western Stato da Mar was announced as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017 and refers to three systems of defensive fortifications in Italy and three elsewhere.
In Italy the three sites are Peschiera del Garda, Palmanova and Bergamo with the remaining sites in Croatia and Montenegro. |
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Profile
The Venetian Works of Defence Between the 16th and 17th Centuries is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses a network of military fortifications built by the Republic of Venice during the Renaissance period.
These fortifications were designed to protect the territories of the Venetian Republic, both on the mainland (Stato da Terra) and in the overseas territories (Stato da Mar). The site showcases the strategic military engineering and architectural prowess of the Venetians during the 16th and 17th centuries.
These fortifications were designed to protect the territories of the Venetian Republic, both on the mainland (Stato da Terra) and in the overseas territories (Stato da Mar). The site showcases the strategic military engineering and architectural prowess of the Venetians during the 16th and 17th centuries.
History
During the 16th and 17th centuries, the Venetian Republic faced increasing threats from neighboring powers, and to defend its vast territories, it undertook an ambitious program of constructing a series of defensive works. The fortifications were strategically positioned to safeguard the territories from potential attacks and were built with the latest innovations in military engineering.
Key features
- Fortresses and Castles: The site includes a variety of fortresses, castles, and defensive structures, each with its distinct architectural style and defensive features.
- Strategic Locations: The fortifications are strategically located along the Venetian territories, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and seascapes.
- Military Engineering: The fortifications reflect the advanced military engineering and architectural techniques employed by the Venetians during the Renaissance period.
- Historical Significance: The site holds historical significance, reflecting the political and military context of the Venetian Republic during its height of power.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours are available at some of the fortifications, providing insights into their historical and military importance.
Venetian Works of Defence Between the 16th and 17th Centuries: Stato da Terra - Western Stato da Mar
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Venetian Works of Defence Between the 16th and 17th Centuries: Stato da Terra - Western Stato da Mar
Year: 2017
Venetian Works of Defence Between the 16th and 17th Centuries: Stato da Terra - Western Stato da Mar
Year: 2017
Bergamo
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Bergamo, located in Lombardy, northern Italy, is a city renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture. It is uniquely divided into two parts: the medieval Città Alta, perched on a hill, and the modern Città Bassa below.
Bergamo’s Città Alta is a key site in the UNESCO World Heritage listing Venetian Works of Defence Between the 16th and 17th Centuries: Stato da Terra - Western Stato da Mar. Its impressive Venetian Walls, built in the 16th century, showcase the city's strategic importance during Venetian rule. These fortifications, with gates, bastions, and panoramic views, exemplify Renaissance military engineering. |
Bergamo, Lombardy
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Palmanova
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Palmanova is a remarkable star-shaped fortress town located in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region of northeastern Italy, near Udine.
Built by the Venetians in 1593, it was designed as a perfect Renaissance city with a nine-pointed star layout for optimal defence. The town’s geometric streets converge on the central Piazza Grande, surrounded by historic buildings and landmarks. Palmanova’s formidable fortifications include bastions, ramparts, and three monumental gates, showcasing advanced military architecture. Originally built to defend against Ottoman invasions, the town later played a role in Napoleonic and Austrian history. |
Palmanova, Friuli Venezia Giulia
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PESCHIERA DEL GARDA
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Peschiera del Garda is a historic town located at the southern tip of Lake Garda in the Veneto region of northern Italy.
Known for its well-preserved fortress, the town played a key role in military defence during the Venetian Republic and later under Austrian rule. The fortress, built in the 16th century, is characterized by its star-shaped walls and extensive canals. Peschiera’s charming old town is surrounded by impressive defensive structures and is a gateway to the lake’s beauty. |
Peschiera del Garda
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