The Hunger Forts

The Hunger Forts

The Hunger Forts invite you on an exciting journey into the past, recalling a difficult and turbulent period for Ticino. Built in 1853, they are the remains of the so-called “Dufour defensive line”, which stretched between Camorino, Giubiasco, and Sementina to protect Bellinzona from potential invaders coming from the south. In 1947, the defensive line was transferred free of charge from the Swiss Confederation to the Republic and Canton of Ticino, which still owns four of the five forts in Camorino today, managed by our Association.

A pleasant walk through vineyards and forests, enriched with explanatory panels, will lead you to discover the Forts of Camorino.

The theme Trail itinerary

The itinerary lasts about 2 hours, starting from the Piazza of Camorino or from the Primary School.

The first two towers are located along the main road, while the other three can be reached along an easy path that can be walked at any time of the year.

Ai Scarsitt [1]

The first tower, “Ai Scarsitt”, was modified for the first time in 1938, when the steps in front of the door were removed. Until 1957, it was rented out to private individuals and remained the best-preserved fort. That that year, however, an act of vandalism removed the roof and the door, leading to its decline.
Thanks to awareness-raising campaigns and the intervention of the Canton, the fort has been restored to its former glory. In 2003, the roof was rebuilt according to the original plans, and the following year the interior and exterior plastering, a new mezzanine floor with access stairs, and interior and exterior lighting were installed.

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Ai Munt [2]

The second tower, “Ai Munt” or “Sura ai Sturn”, remained without a roof for years. In 1957, it was restored at the expense of the first tower. With the support of the Canton, the restoration work was completed, allowing it to be used for a wider range of activities, including exhibitions.

Ala Peléra [3]

The third tower, “Ala Peléra” or “Al Mött del Riaa”, is the only single-storey fort. It remained intact until the 1930s, when an arson attack destroyed the roof and the interior. The association has cleared the brambles and built a wooden footbridge to improve access.

Al Sass del Camósc [4]

Built on a hill with panoramic views, the fourth tower “Al Sass del Camósc” had wooden beams and a lintel removed in 1943. Restoration work has improved the entrance and the access path.

Al Pian di Bur [5]

The fifth tower “Al Pian di Bur” will soon become the Museum of Energy, a project by Azienda Multiservizi Bellinzona (AMB) and Technorama Winterthur, offering a panoramic view of the Morobbia Valley.

www.fortinoenergia.ch

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