Perfectly shaped like a nine-point star, Palmanova is one of the best-known fortified towns in the world. In its intact layout you can find the fortunate realization of what was considered an urbanistically ideal city in Renaissance studies. Built by the Venetian Republic at the end of the 16th century in order to defend its eastern borders from the Hapsburg and Turkish threats, the fortress remained a Venetian dominion until 1797, when Austria occupied it. It then passed under the rule of Napoleon that gave the town its name as a sign of victory.

Our tour begins right from the center of Palmanova, the imposing Piazza Grande (Main Square), and continues with a fascinating walk through the gates and fortifications surrounding this unique town.