Easy and rewarding short loop on the Osoppo Hill visiting its Fort and the numerous works on its summit.
The Osoppo Fort is an important historical and cultural testimony of the Friuli hills. Its construction began at the end of the Middle Ages, in response to tensions between the Venetian Republic and the Habsburg Empire. Throughout its history, the fort played a significant role during various conflicts, especially during the 1848 Risorgimento uprisings, when the Friulian inhabitants managed to resist the imperial troops for a prolonged period.
In 1923, the Osoppo Fort was declared a national monument, and in 1951 it was demilitarized, beginning a new phase of its life as a place for cultural events. Today, the fort is visitable and offers spectacular views over the Tagliamento river and the surrounding hills. The historical interest is enhanced by the presence of archaeological remains dating both to the Great War and earlier periods, even prehistoric ones!
To reach the site, visitors can follow a historic road built by Napoleonic soldiers. Once inside, you encounter various structures: from the first artillery fortification to the main powder magazine, up to the Osoppo-south Battery, where powerful cannons were located. Exploration continues through underground corridors and structures that once formed the fort's defensive system, including the Osoppo-north Battery, strategically oriented towards the Braulins bridge.
In summary, the Osoppo Fort is not only an important tourist attraction but also a cultural heritage that tells the historical events of Friuli Venezia Giulia, making it a place of great charm for history and nature enthusiasts.
It is recommended to bring a torch to adequately illuminate the exploration of the accessible galleries on the hilltop. The large number of elements to observe on the summit area should be explored with curiosity but caution.
