Forts and military buildings in Cavallino Treporti

Cavallino Treporti is a unique location, situated in a privileged position between the cities of Venice and Jesolo. This area, known to most as a seaside destination, actually houses many historical and military artefacts dating mainly from the First World War, tangible proof of its fascinating history.

The area, is a wonderful open-air museum with many fortifications, barracks, bunkers and coastal batteries located at a short distance from each other and easily explored by bicycle: a pleasant and definitely eco-friendly experience, suitable for the whole family and easily enjoyed by Camping Ca’Savio guests thanks to the on-site bicycle rental.

“Via dei Forti” project: an open-air museum

The “Via dei Forti” project, created to enhance the precious historical-military heritage of Cavallino Treporti, is a true “Museo Diffuso” (widespread museum) that unfolds through many stages, not to be missed if you spend your holiday in this area.

Further information on the route, opening hours and activities are available on the dedicated website, while the Via dei Forti map on Visitcavallino will help you plan your tour.

If you wish to explore more, you will find many excursions to discover this unique open-air museum.

Here are the most important sights of the Museo Diffuso.

The telemetry towers

Among the most fascinating buildings of the military heritage of Cavallino Treporti are undoubtedly the fourteen telemetry towers, also known as artillery stations. These tall towers, dating back to the Great War and used mostly after the defeat at Caporetto in 1917, stand out along the coastline and are located further inland than the imposing coastal batteries.

Forte Vecchio (Treporti Fort)

Forte Treporti, also known as Forte Vecchio, is one of the most important historical sites of the area. Dating back to the 19th century and located at a strategic position for the defence of one of the main water entrances to Venice, Forte Treporti has been the backdrop to several battles, and still houses a great number of fascinating historical finds.

Polveriera and Casermetta

These two buildings are veritable testimonies to the lives of soldiers and their activities, especially during the First World War. The Polveriera, the historical ammunition depot in Cavallino, and the nearby Casermetta, which housed the guards, are still well kept and easily visible along the Via dei Forti route.

Barracks

Cavallino Treporti hosts several barracks – referred to in the literature of the Great War as the “Out-of-Trench” – each with its own history and importance.

Along Via dei Forti you can see the Caserma Il Mandracio, the Caserma Ca’Pasquali and the Caserma Ufficiali, now private homes and therefore only open to visitors from the outside.

Bunkers

During the Second World War, several fortifications were built along the coast of Cavallino Treporti by the Germans, including many anti-aircraft and anti-landing bunkers.

Most of these buildings were destroyed by the Germans themselves, but the few bunkers that were still standing today are silent witnesses of the turbulent past of this area.

Coastal Batteries

The Cavallino Treporti area hosts many coastal batteries, erected during the two World Wars to defend against naval attacks. Immersed in the greenery of the coastline, these buildings have always fascinated visitors because of their architecture and military power. They were indeed armed with numerous howitzers and powerful cannons capable of firing one shot per minute at a distance of over 20 km.

Among the most impressive and important, belonging to the Museo Diffuso, are the Pisani Battery, housing the museum by the same name and located just behind Camping Ca’Savio, the Amalfi Battery and the San Marco Battery, which today host cultural events and exhibitions, and the Radaelli Battery, converted instead for tourist and commercial use.

Staying at Camping Ca’Savio therefore will not only mean to spend a pleasant holiday by the sea surrounded by nature, but also the chance to discover the precious historical-military heritage of Cavallino Treporti and the events that have marked the history of this wonderful area.