Underground, with open hearts: in Villar Perosa, remembrance reaches out to children

A Sunday of history and solidarity, with donations intended for the Fondazione Ospedale Regina Margherita. In Villar Perosa, in the Chisone Valley, Vivere le Alpi had scheduled “Con il cuore” for 25 October 2026 at the Via della Braida air-raid shelters.

A place that protected thousands of people

The shelters were built between January and June 1943, during the Second World War. The association’s website describes about 730 metres of tunnels, five entrances and a total capacity of up to 3,500 people. Today, visits are made possible through cooperation between Vivere le Alpi and the municipality.

The programme was to begin with a gift to the community

At 4 pm, the programme included the inauguration of a defibrillator donated by Vivere le Alpi to the municipality, the first announced gesture in an event combining local memory, support for the hospital and community safety.

During the visits, music by Manuel Lerda on hurdy-gurdy and bagpipes was scheduled, with hot chocolate and mulled wine offered by the local Alpini group. The municipality, Avis, Admo and Cuore Aperto were also listed in the programme.

Donations were intended for Regina Margherita

According to the announced programme, all donations were intended for the Fondazione Ospedale Regina Margherita, with volunteers and information materials. The idea brought local history and support for children together in a place built to protect people.

Information from the completed visit

The shelters are in Via della Braida. During the same 4–6 pm period, the programme also announced a visit to the Bearing Museum at Via Nazionale 24/26. Vivere le Alpi’s calendar confirmed the 25 October opening at 4 pm and admission by voluntary donation.

A Sunday to remember

The 25 October initiative has ended. If you would like to explore the shelters, follow Vivere le Alpi’s calendar for future openings and plan a visit with a friend or your family.

Discover the history of the shelters

This background video is featured on the local heritage portal “Villar Perosa nella Storia” and explores the shelter. It is not footage of the 25 October event.