Palmanova was considered one of the best fortresses in Europe following its founding on October 7, 1593. Having lost Gradisca, the Serenissima Republic of Venice established Palmanova on the plains of Friuli to block the Turks from the east and also to provide protection against the Austrians.
The fortress includes double doors at three gates (1603-1605), double walls, double moats and double earthworks. Patterned in the shape of a nine-pointed star, the walls offer minimum exposure to enemy artillery fire. Various areas of the fortification are connected by over four kilometers of tunnels.
Palmanova passed to the French in 1797 and then to the Austrians before going to the Italians in 1866
An extensive exhibit and sale of antique prints is held every August.
The nearest accommodations are in Cervignano.
