Neumann, Hans-Rudolf Rom - Latium. Fortifikatorischer Exkursionsbericht einer Studienreise vom 23.09. bis 01.10.2023

Rome is not only worth a visit, but is also always a rewarding field of research for those interested in fortifications. The capital of Italy has been heavily fortified time and again since Roman times, but this has not prevented enemy troops from attacking and capturing the city from time to time throughout history. Many structural fortifications have survived to this day, some in varying states of repair. These range from the Roman city walls, such as the Aurelian Wall as one of the most impressive legacies of the Roman Empire, to the modern bastion fortifications of the Italian architect family Sangallo, to the large fortifications of Campo Trincerato from the 19th century, which are still present today in the form of a belt of forts around the city.

Outside of Rome, a series of fortified aristocratic residences, city complexes and harbour fortifications were built during the Renaissance, the purpose of which was more or less to prevent, but also to provide protected access to the capital. The tour documentary reports on the experiences of a group tour and explores the existing tourism potential. Weaknesses in dealing with this undervalued heritage are scrutinised. The aim of the study tour was to publicise lesser-known fortifications to a wider audience in order to better promote them through networked marketing.