Forte di Santa Tecla

History of the fort

In 1753 Sanremo rose up against the Republic of Genoa. After the revolt Genoa built the fort in the mid-1700s as a show of force: its purpose was political rather than defensive, to keep an eye on the townspeople. Official sources say “mid-18th century”; for the exact building dates they differ (1755 or 1755–56), so we do not fix them here. Its original name is said to have been San Giorgio, later replaced by Santa Tecla.

After 1815 the building was used as barracks. From 1864 to 1997 it was a judicial prison; in 1943–45 it was also an ammunition store for the German army. The State’s first consolidation works began in 2013 and made some ground-floor spaces usable. Since 31 March 2016 the fort has been run by the Direzione regionale Musei Liguria and, after an agreement with the municipality, it reopened to the town in summer 2016.

What to see

The fortress is triangular, on three floors. You visit the restored spaces, the terraces and the rooms that host temporary exhibitions. The programme changes every season: in recent years it included photography shows, concerts, DJ nights, talks and workshops. For 2026–27 the official site announces exhibitions, concerts and theatre, plus creative workshops for children at €10 per child, with free entry for the first accompanying adult.

On Fridays the second-floor rooms (the Gunners’ Quarters) are also open as a study and work space called SmarTecla.

Getting there

The fort stands on the seafront next to the Porto Vecchio, in central Sanremo. You can walk from the centre: Via Matteotti and the Casino are close, and the old town of La Pigna lies in the other direction. If you come by car, use the public car parks near the harbour and the centre and check the rates on site. To go further along the coast, there is the Sanremo cycle path.

Practical tips

• The fort has had seasons with reduced opening because of works, including projects funded under the PNRR: check the website before you go, especially out of season. Official website of Forte di Santa Tecla
• According to the Ministry of Culture, under-18s enter free and, as at other state sites, so does everyone on the first Sunday of the month. Check that it applies on your day.
• For evening events or those with outside organisers, the ticket may differ from the normal entrance fee.
• Information: +39 0184 1952853 or drm-lig.fortesantatecla@cultura.gov.it.

Who it is for

It is a short stop, good if you want a historic building that is different from the usual museums, if you follow exhibitions and concerts, or if you have children and want a workshop. If you are short of time in Sanremo, combine it with a walk along the seafront and through the centre, perhaps together with the Giardini Regina Elena and the Empress’s Promenade.