Forte Marghera is the main, oldest, and largest fort in Mestre, built at the closest point between the mainland and Venice. The Fort stands on the old village of Marghera. Evidence of this can be seen in the building to the left of the entrance to the fort, distinguished by three arches that originally, in the 1500s, formed a bridge, later transformed into a building and incorporated into the fortification, which began in 1805 by Austrian troops and was supplemented with other structures by Napoleon's troops until 1814, when it returned definitively to Austrian control.

In the 20th century, during World War I, the fort became a logistical hub for the northeast and was completed with additional buildings that shaped its current layout. Since 2010, it has been owned by the Municipality of Venice, and since 2015, it has been home to the Forte Marghera Foundation, established to manage the Fort and promote cultural heritage.

Today, within the former military structure, you can find several refreshment points, the Military History Museum, a specialized library dedicated to the study of military fortifications, and exhibitions by the Civic Museums and the Venice Biennale.

During the summer, the bay becomes a meeting point for events and aperitifs with a view of the canal leading to Venice.

Useful information:

Transport: Forte Marghera Aretusa stop. Ample parking space for cars. Bike rental available nearby.

Official Website: http://fondazionefortemarghera.it/

Forte in Fiore 2026

What to see in the surroundings

Forte Marghera