FORTE CULTURA is a European cultural route and network that connects cities, regions, and institutions across Europe through their tangible and intangible heritage of fortifications.
Our organisation consists of two complementary areas with different external focuses:
- European Cultural Route – a brand for cultural tourism and history education about Europe’s fortified heritage, aimed at tourists, families, and learners.
- European Network – a professional platform for the preservation and sustainable use of fortified heritage, aimed at members, institutions, and experts.

The revitalised art gallery is set to redefine cultural landscape.
With meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to excellence, we create spaces that inspire, elevate, and enrich the lives of those who inhabit them.
The revitalised Art Gallery is set to redefine the cultural landscape of Toronto, serving as a nexus of artistic expression, community engagement, and architectural marvel. The expansion and renovation project pay homage to the Art Gallery’s rich history while embracing the future, ensuring that the gallery remains a beacon of inspiration.
The revitalised Art Gallery is set to redefine the cultural landscape of Toronto, serving as a nexus of artistic expression, community engagement, and architectural marvel. The expansion and renovation project pay homage to the Art Gallery’s rich history while embracing the future, ensuring that the gallery remains a beacon of inspiration.

A word from our president
“Fortresses were built to protect. The countless conflicts and wars of the past centuries have left behind a wide spectrum of fortified architecture. Today, these monuments continue to shape the history and identity of cities, regions, nations, our European continent and the world itself.
By connecting these fortresses into a single European cultural route, FORTE CULTURA makes the diversity of fortified monuments tangible, accessible, and meaningful for everyone.
Meet our team
Our comprehensive suite of professionals caters to a diverse team, ranging from seasoned architects to renowned engineers.
Francesca Piovani
Founder, CEO, and Architect
Rhye Moore
Engineering Manager
Helga Steiner
Architect
Ivan Lawrence
Project Manager
We’ve worked with some of the best companies.
FAQs
Our Mission
1. Preserve and Revitalize Heritage
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting Europe’s fortified monuments – from medieval castles and bastioned fortresses to citadels and modern bunkers – and turning them into vibrant places of culture, education, and community life.
2. A Cultural Route for Everyone
Through the cultural route, we invite visitors, families, and schools to explore the architecture, history, and living stories of fortifications. It is a journey through Europe’s shared history, brought to life in immersive and engaging ways.
3. A Network of Experts and Partners
The professional network brings together municipalities, institutions, researchers, and practitioners. Together, we foster collaboration, exchange expertise, and develop innovative projects for the sustainable use of fortified heritage.
4. Turning Diversity into Potential
Europe’s fortified heritage reflects an extraordinary diversity of styles, purposes, and historical contexts. Our mission is to transform this diversity into a powerful driver of cultural growth, accessible to both local communities and international visitors.
Who is behind Études?
Études offers comprehensive consulting, management, design, and research solutions. Our vision is to be at the forefront of architectural innovation, fostering a global community of architects and enthusiasts united by a passion for creating spaces. Every architectural endeavour is an opportunity to shape the future.
I’d like to get to meet fellow architects, how can I do that?
Études offers comprehensive consulting, management, design, and research solutions. Our vision is to be at the forefront of architectural innovation, fostering a global community of architects and enthusiasts united by a passion for creating spaces. Every architectural endeavour is an opportunity to shape the future.
Can I apply to be a part of the team or work as a contractor?
Études offers comprehensive consulting, management, design, and research solutions. Our vision is to be at the forefront of architectural innovation, fostering a global community of architects and enthusiasts united by a passion for creating spaces. Every architectural endeavour is an opportunity to shape the future.
Enhance your architectural journey with the Études Architect app.
- Collaborate with fellow architects.
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- Experience the world of architecture.

