Cittadella of Alessandria

The Cittadella of Alessandria, known locally as the Cittadella di Alessandria, stands as a monumental testament to European military architecture from the 18th century. Nestled on the left bank of the Tanaro River in the town of Alessandria, Italy, this fortress is not only one of the most well-preserved examples of its kind but also the only plain fortification constructed by the House of Savoy during that era. It remains uniquely integrated into its original environmental context, free from the encroachment of modern urban development.

The Historical Significance of the Cittadella of Alessandria

The strategic importance of the area around Alessandria has long been recognized, dating back to its days as a boundary land and military stronghold. Following the War of Spanish Succession and the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713, the Duchy of Savoy acquired the provinces of Alessandria and Valenza. This acquisition necessitated the construction of a formidable fortress to control and defend these newly gained territories.

Commissioned by Vittorio Amedeo II of Savoy and designed by the military engineer Ignazio Bertola, the construction of the Cittadella began in 1732. Bertola's design was influenced by his experiences during the siege of Turin in 1706, leading to the creation of a star-shaped fortification that addressed the flaws of earlier defensive structures. The fortress was intended to serve as a barrier against military transits along the Strada di Fiandra, an ancient military route connecting the ports of Genoa, Savona, and Finale Ligure with the Netherlands.

The Construction and Architecture of the Cittadella

The Cittadella of Alessandria is a stellar example of modern fortification design, featuring six bastioned fronts connected by thick, straight curtains and traversed by galleries and casemates. The fortress covers approximately 60 hectares, with its longest side running parallel to the Tanaro River. The construction process, which lasted around fourteen years, involved significant urban changes, including the demolition of the ancient district of Bergoglio to make way for the new military quarters.

The fortress's location on the marshy lands of Borgoglio required innovative engineering solutions. The foundations were stabilized using a system of wooden piles driven into the ground and reinforced with iron chains. This method ensured the stability of the bastions, curtains, and internal buildings. The Cittadella was connected to the city by a stone bridge, later reconstructed in the 21st century by architect Richard Meier. The bridge and the surrounding moat, protected by tenailleons, ravelins, counterguards, and redoubts, add to the fortress's formidable defenses.

Military Engagements and Historical Events

The Cittadella of Alessandria first faced military action during the War of Austrian Succession between 1745 and 1746. Despite being incomplete and under-armed, the fortress withstood a seven-month siege by Franco-Spanish forces. Later, during the First Italian Campaign, the fortress fell into French hands but was recaptured by Austrian and Russian forces under General Suvorov in 1799 after a three-day bombardment.

Throughout the 19th century, the Cittadella continued to play a significant role in military conflicts. Notably, on March 10, 1821, the tricolor flag was raised on the bastions of the Cittadella for the first time in Italian history by Lieutenant Colonel Guglielmo Ansaldi, symbolizing a momentous event in the country's struggle for unification.

Exploring the Cittadella Today

Today, the Cittadella of Alessandria remains a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. As you approach the fortress, you are greeted by its imposing walls and the expansive moat that once served as a critical defensive feature. The entrance, accessed via the reconstructed bridge, leads to a vast area surrounded by multi-story buildings, originally designed as military quarters and storage facilities.

Inside the fortress, visitors can explore the intricate network of galleries and casemates that run through the bastioned fronts. These underground passages, once used for troop movements and storage, offer a glimpse into the daily life of the soldiers who once manned the fortress. The well-preserved state of these structures provides a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to imagine the strategic importance of the Cittadella in its heyday.

The Cittadella and UNESCO

Recognizing its historical and architectural significance, the Cittadella of Alessandria was designated a national monument and, in 2006, was included in the Tentative List for nomination as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This acknowledgment underscores the fortress's value as a cultural and historical landmark, worthy of preservation and study.

In conclusion, the Cittadella of Alessandria stands as a remarkable example of 18th-century military architecture, rich in history and meticulously preserved. Its strategic importance, innovative design, and role in significant historical events make it an unmissable destination for those visiting Alessandria. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, the Cittadella offers a unique and enriching experience that transports you back to a pivotal time in European history.