During your holiday at Villaggio Val Molini, alongside the unspoilt nature and relaxing atmosphere of the lake, you also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the most famous and fascinating chapters of Italian history. Just 2 km from our village lies Bezzecca, a small town that has become a true symbol of the Italian Risorgimento.
Whether you are passionate about history or simply curious to discover why this small valley is so famous throughout Italy, take a journey back in time and explore the story of Giuseppe Garibaldi and these places of historical memory.
🔴 What does Giuseppe Garibaldi have to do with Bezzecca?
To understand the importance of this place, we need to go back to 21 July 1866, during the Third Italian War of Independence. It was here in Bezzecca that a fierce and bloody battle took place between the Italian Cacciatori delle Alpi, led by Giuseppe Garibaldi, and the Austrian army.
Garibaldi achieved a major victory, opening the way for his troops to march towards Trento and liberate the region. History, however, took a different turn: just a few days later, King Victor Emmanuel II ordered him to stop and withdraw following the armistice agreements with Austria.
It was from Bezzecca, on 9 August 1866, that Garibaldi replied to the King with the legendary telegram consisting of a single, now-famous word: “Obbedisco” – “I Obey”.
🏛️ What to visit: the Garibaldi Museum and Colle di Santo Stefano
Today, Bezzecca is a true open-air museum. Here are the places you should not miss during your visit:
The Garibaldi and Great War Museum: This museum houses historical artefacts, weapons, military uniforms, original documents and period letters that tell the story not only of Garibaldi’s campaign in 1866, but also of the events of the First World War, when Ledro Valley became a frontline area marked by trenches.
Colle di Santo Stefano: Just behind the museum, a short walk takes you to this historic hill. Here you can walk through the remarkably well-preserved Great War trenches, partially concealed within the rock, visit the small ossuary church and see the monument dedicated to the Italian and Garibaldian fallen soldiers.
🎭 Summer events not to be missed
Every year, during July and August, Bezzecca comes alive with historical re-enactments and cultural events that recreate the atmosphere of 1866.
The Historical Re-enactment (around 21 July): On the weekend closest to the anniversary of the battle, the town travels back in time. Actors dressed in red shirts, Austrian infantrymen in white uniforms, historical military camps, parades and the sound of blank cannon fire fill the streets of the village. An unforgettable experience for the whole family, including children!
📌 Useful information for your visit
Opening period: The museum is open from June to September.
Ticket price: Admission to the museum is free.
🐾 Are dogs allowed? Yes. Dogs kept on a lead are welcome both along the entire outdoor route around Colle di Santo Stefano and the trenches, and inside the museum galleries. For medium-sized and large dogs, it is always recommended to carry a muzzle for the indoor areas.