The base was part of the secret 'ADIS' (Air Defense Italy System) network.
The Nike-Hercules missiles housed here were capable of carrying nuclear warheads during the Cold War.
The base remained functional for over a decade before being abandoned and later repurposed for public education.
The location was chosen for its strategic visibility and high elevation, providing clear radar coverage of the surrounding airspace.
Many of the original technical manuals and operational equipment are still present within the control bunkers.
Base Tuono is a Cold War-era NATO missile base preserved as a museum located on the Passo Coe plateau in the Italian Alps. It served as one of the operational Nike-Hercules missile sites in Italy from 1966 until its decommissioning in 1977. The site is uniquely situated at an altitude of 1,500 meters, historically designed to protect Northern Italy from aerial threats during the Cold War. Visitors can explore the preserved launch area, control rooms, and radar stations that remain largely in their original configuration. It stands as the only site of its kind in Europe currently accessible as a museum. The museum offers insights into the strategic military history of the Trentino region during the latter half of the 20th century.
The central launch pad area, which offers a wide-angle view of the missile silos against the mountain skyline.
Bring a warm jacket even in summer, as the temperature at 1,500 meters is significantly lower than in the valley.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the gravel paths and metal walkways between the bunkers.
Check the official website for guided tour availability, as some areas are restricted to group access.
Attempting to visit during winter or early spring when the plateau is often inaccessible due to heavy snow cover.
Open seasonally from spring through autumn; closed during the winter months due to high snowfall.
Respect all restricted zones; do not touch technical equipment or vintage radar consoles.
