The historic Forte di Exillesnestled in the Alta Valle di Susais set to reopen its doors to the public on June 20, 2026. This iconic fortress, managed by the new partnership Exilles Extra Forte 2026promises a season brimming with cultural events, historical exhibits, and live performances. The fortress, a symbol of the region’s rich history, aims to attract visitors from across the region and beyond.
The reopening of the Forte di Exilles marks the continuation of a journey that began post-pandemic, showcasing the fortress’s ability to blend historical preservation with cultural offerings. The new project, spearheaded by IGIIC – Gruppo Italiano dell’International Institute for conservation and Fondazione Cirko Vertigo Impresa Sociale Culturale Creativaaims to transform the fortress into a hub of memory, spectacle, and community engagement. Under the artistic direction of Alberto Milesithe fortress will host a diverse range of events and exhibitions.
The Forte di Exilles: A Historical Landmark
The Forte di Exilles, originally constructed in 1339 and expanded until 1829, stands as a testament to the region’s strategic importance. The fortress has served various roles, from a castle for the Delfini to a stronghold for the King of France and the King of Sardinia. It is also famously linked to the legend of the Maschera di Ferroa man imprisoned here between 1681 and 1687. The fortress’s rich history and architectural grandeur make it a must-visit destination.
2026 Season Highlights
The 2026 season at the Forte di Exilles is set to be the most ambitious yet, with a budget of 100,000 euros and a target of 12,000 visitors. The fortress will be open for 70 days during the summer, with additional openings in the autumn. The entrance fee has been set at 5 euroswhich includes access to the fortress and all temporary exhibitions. Visitors with an Abbonamento Musei will continue to enjoy free entry.
Live Performances in the Cortile del Cavaliere
The Cortile del Cavalierewith its 600 seating capacitywill be the epicenter of the fortress’s artistic program. The season will feature 14 live performancesincluding concerts, theater, contemporary circus, and dance performances. Highlights include concerts by Bandakadabra on July 30 and I Patagarri on August 14. The theater production Difensore d’ufficioin collaboration with the Teatro Stabile di Torinoand the reading Patria oh Patria by Lella Costa are also among the standout events. Families can enjoy the Piccoli mondi series, offering four Sundays of family-friendly performances.
Exhibitions: History, Photography, and Pop Culture
The fortress will host three major exhibitions in 2026. Soldati – storie di uomini e guarnigioni dell’antico Forte di Exillescurated by Eugenio Garoglio and Massimo Garavelliwill delve into the lives of the soldiers who defended the fortress. The exhibition Fuochi d’artificioin collaboration with CAMERA – Centro Italiano per la Fotografia and the Museo Nazionale del Cinemawill showcase approximately fifty photographs from the RAI series filmed in the Val di Susa in 2026. Additionally, the Monster Gallery – Tutti i mostri di Loch Nesscurated by Vittorio Pavesio and Alberto Setzuwill explore the myth of the Loch Ness Monster through literature, cinema, and comics.
Connecting with the Territory
The Forte di Exilles is not just a cultural hub but also a gateway to the natural beauty of the Val di Susa. The fortress will serve as the starting point for the Borgate in Cammino trail, which combines hiking with artistic content through the Parco Naturale del Gran Bosco di Salbertrand. Visitors can also enjoy local markets featuring artisanal products, from heroic wines and craft beers to cheeses and honey. The fortress’s commitment to promoting local culture and tourism makes it a vital part of the region’s identity.
