The renovation and adaptation of the Fortress of Franzensfeste in the South Tyrol into an exhibition center, has been undertaken by Markus Scherer and Walter Dietl. This 19th century structure is the largest of its type in Europe and is rumored to have had a colorful past. Though never having been under siege, it has served as an army barracks and a munitions depot and its deep tunnels are said to have been the secret storage space for Nazi gold.
In 2008 it hosted the European Contemporary Art Biennale and its potential was recognized as an important cultural space. The restoration was carried out by using a variety of materials in tune with the ones of the original structure, thereby retaining the historical character of the fort. Man-made stone and dull patinated steel bridges linking the spaces complement the severity of the building.
In the exhibition rooms, the arched ceilings have been stripped back to expose the original brickwork. In addition, to facilitate visitors, a ticket office, shop, bar and restaurant have been designed in a bold architectural intervention to create a stunning exhibition venue in the Alps.
