The West Star Bunker Site B

West Star:

 How it was built and what it was used for 

West Star: Located in Affi (VR), carved into the rock of Mount Moscal, it was built between 1960 and 1966. It served as a NATO command and control post in the north-western Italian theater, to counter a possible breakthrough by the Warsaw Pact at the Gorizia threshold.

West Star is one of the best-known code names given to the underground military complex in Affi (VR), built during the Cold War. It was one of the most important facilities in the NATO system in Italy.

Location 

Located on Monte Moscal, between Affi and Cavaion Veronese (VR).

A few kilometers from Lake Garda, in a strategic yet secluded position.

Structure and security 

Underground facility carved into the mountain, with multiple camouflaged entrances.

Corridors and tunnels in reinforced concrete, resistant to nuclear attacks and bombings.

Armored doors and air filtration systems to withstand chemical or biological attacks as well.

Access points guarded by military units, with areas off-limits to the civilian population.

Operational functions 

NATO command and communications center for northeastern Italy.

It was intended to coordinate the military response in the event of a conflict with the Warsaw Pact.

It was connected via secure telephone and radio lines to other Italian and NATO facilities.

It was used for exercises and simulations of nuclear war scenarios.

Military presence 

Italian and NATO officers operated here, often in contact with the 5th ATAF (Allied Tactical Air Force) based in Vicenza.

It had autonomous operating capability (power, water, food supplies) to accommodate personnel for extended periods in isolation.

Period of activity 

Built in the 1960s and remained operational until the 1990s.

After the end of the Cold War it lost strategic importance and was decommissioned in 1999.

Entrances and main tunnel 

Three access points: Alpha (personnel only), Beta (personnel + materials), and an exit/emergency exit (Incaffi). Positions and elevations

Let’s talk about the recent history of the Bunker

See the Bunker Redevelopment Project

Transfer to the Municipality of Affi in 2018

The structure, which until then had been state-owned, was transferred to the Municipality in 2018, with the commitment to designate it for museum use.

Recognition as a “monumental asset” and access to funding 

On 16 January 2024, the Ministry of Culture granted West Star monumental protection status, describing it as a “time capsule”. This recognition allows access to national and European funds for conservation and restoration. 

Museum hub project in progress

 The Municipality has appointed a team led by architect Michelangelo Pivetta of the University of Florence to design the museum layout. The works include conservation restoration, safety measures, upgrading of systems and scenic installations.

A significant investment is needed: around 8 million euros to complete the restoration and bring it up to code and ready for public use. 

Involvement of bodies and institutions

The Chamber of Commerce of Verona has launched a technical-economic feasibility study together with the Municipality, with the aim of structuring a sustainable plan.

Member of Parliament Alessia Ambrosi has submitted a parliamentary question to urge government support and UNESCO candidacy.

What will happen from now on?

Feasibility study defined in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce, aimed at structuring the operational plan.

Access to and obtaining of national and European funds to cover at least half of the estimated costs.

Final and executive design of the museum route, including installations, safety and management.

Possible UNESCO candidacy for enhancement and international visibility.

Progressive opening, pending completion of works and funding.

Allocation of funds for restoration

4 May 2026.  After the presentation to the government made in December 2025, the government, through an amendment to the budget law, allocates 7 million euros for the creation of the museum hub and unblocks the situation. The Mayor of Affi, Sega, states that the first visits could already take place from summer 2027.

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Help preserve and share the history of FTASE, the Cold War, and the West Star and Back Yard bunkers. With a donation, it is possible to support historical research, the preservation of archives, and outreach activities dedicated to future generations.

Every contribution counts.

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