Overlooking the sea, austere and romantic, Forte dell’Annunziata (Fort) is a military fortress located on the hill of Ventimiglia, built between the 16th and 17th centuries to defend the town from enemy incursions.

Its position offers a spectacular view of the town and the coast. It is one of the most beautiful scenic spots in the area. From the parade ground, there is an extraordinary view over Piana di Latte (Plain), Villa Hanbury’s botanical gardens, and the Balzi Rossi caves. To the east, you get a glimpse of the modern town, beyond which the ruins of the Roman municipality are preserved. You can push your gaze towards the tip of Sant’Ampelio in Bordighera, to get lost in the marine horizon.

Historical Background

The fort was designed by Italian military architect Giovan Battista Cevasco, who built it on a hill overlooking the town and port below. It was equipped with thick walls, watchtowers, cannons, and ditches, and represented one of the city’s main defenses against enemy invasions.

Over the centuries, the fort was also used as a prison and military barracks, before being abandoned and falling into ruin.

In 1960, the Municipality of Ventimiglia purchased it and began a long process of restoration and redevelopment to transform it into an important tourist and cultural attraction.

The museum

Since 1989, Forte dell’Annunziata has hosted the Civic Archaeological Museum named after Girolamo Rossi, discoverer of the Roman city of Albintimilium.