Brunella Fortress: A Renaissance Fortress in Aulla
The Brunella Fortress is located on the hill above Aulla overlooking the city. Of Renaissance origin, it was built in a strategic position from where the confluence of the Aulella river into the Magra river controls a part of the valley.
The first sources citing Brunella date back to 1553 and discusses the full military function of the structure. It is assumed that its construction took place in the place where a small medieval fort once stood. Over the centuries, the Brunella fortress has remained the most imposing military work in Lunigiana.
After centuries of different domains, in 1860 the building was resold several times, also becoming a private residence. In 1977 it was purchased by the Italian State, which entrusted it to the management of the municipality of Aulla, which chose it as the site of a museum.
Architecturally, the Brunella Fortress has a square plan, with 4 imposing rectangular towers at each corner, surrounded by a large moat. The grandeur of the structure is given by the enormous walls that distinguish it.
Today the fortress houses the Lunigiana Natural History Museum (Museo della Storia Naturale della Lunigiana).
Sigeric, a cooperative of environmental guides, periodically organizes activities such as treasure hunts for children inside the Fortress.
Where the Brunella Fortress is located
The Fortress is located in Aulla.
How to reach the Brunella Fortress
Once in Aulla, follow the signs for the Brunella Fortress.
Openings 2026
JANUARY 2026
Tuesday afternoon, January 6 | Guided tours at 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm
FEBRUARY 2026
Sunday afternoon, February 15 | Guided tours at 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm
MARCH 2026
Saturday and Sunday afternoons | Guided tours at 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm
APRIL 2026
Saturday and Sunday afternoons | Guided tours at 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm – 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Special opening on Monday, April 6 | Guided tours at 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm – 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
MAY 2026
Saturday and Sunday afternoons | Guided tours at 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm – 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Special opening on Friday, May 1 | Guided tours at 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm – 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
JUNE 2026
Saturday and Sunday | Guided tours at 10:00 am – 10:45 am – 11:30 am | 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm – 5:30 pm
JULY 2026
Every day | Guided tours at 10:00 am – 10:45 am – 11:30 am | 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm – 5:30 pm
AUGUST 2026
Every day | Guided tours at 10:00 am – 10:45 am – 11:30 am | 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm – 5:30 pm
SEPTEMBER 2026
Saturday and Sunday | Guided tours at 10:00 am – 10:45 am – 11:30 am | 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm – 5:30 pm
OCTOBER 2026
Saturday and Sunday afternoons | Guided tours at 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm – 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
NOVEMBER 2026
Tuesday afternoon, November 15 | Guided tours at 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm
DECEMBER 2026
Saturday and Sunday afternoons | Guided tours at 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm
Special opening on Tuesday, December 8 | Guided tours at 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm
Nearby you can find
Saint Caprasio Abbey Museum, Borgo di Caprigliola, Borgo di Bibola, sentieri della Quinta Tappa della Via Francigena in Lunigiana, Pallerone Castle.
