Modelli di fortezze nella Sardegna del secondo Settecento: l'opera dell'ingegnere militare Saverio Belgrano di Famolasco

The transition of the Kingdom of Sardinia to the House of Savoy in 1720 initiated series of comprehensive restoration and modernization campaigns aimed at the region's defensive architecture. The Savoy administration recognized the urgent need to strengthen military fortifications in response to evolving warfare demands, particularly along the coastlines. This led to the construction of advanced coastal defenses, replacing the simpler watchtowers of previous centuries with more complex and strategic fortifications, including anti-landing structures that integrated the latest military theories.A pivotal figure in this ambitious architectural campaign was Saverio Belgrano, a military engineer active in Sardinia from 1761 to 1769. Graduated at the Military Academy of Turin, Belgrano expertly applied contemporary military knowledge, paying close attention to the strategic and topographical requirements of each site. His notable projects included the Fortezza Vecchia in Villasimius, the fort of San Vittorio in Carloforte, and the tower-fort on the island of Santo Stefano, all strategically located along key maritime routes.Belgrano's designs were informed by both Vauban’s fortification principles and the Montalembert school, reflecting his ability to synthesize these influences and innovate based on Sardinia’s unique defense needs. Despite the constraints of his official responsibilities, Belgrano produced a diverse array of innovative architectural projects throughout the region, effectively addressing both public and private commissioning needs.