Forte lorenese

Forte lorenese, known to all as 'il Fortino', was built in 1788 by Grand Duke Leopold for defensive and commercial purposes.

After unification, it was barracks for the customs guard and then the finance guard. It was also used as a marble warehouse.

In 1928 it was renamed Palazzo Littorio and became the headquarters of local fascism.

Mussolini's speech announcing the declaration of war was broadcast from here on 10 June.

After 8 September, local fascism was among the first to re-establish itself, under the leadership of Vincenzo Gasperetti; and it was immediately among the leading players in the anti-partisan repression.

This was the starting point for the expeditions of 24 February 1944 against five local partisans, who were then taken to Lucca: 28 February and 16 April in Ruosina against Gino Lombardi, 12 May against eight other anti-fascists, including the parents of partisan Piero Pierini, who were then transferred to Colle di Compito.

After the war, the fort was renovated and became the seat of the post office.

Today it houses the Museum of Satire and Caricature