From: Ivd
Brescia – It’s not for nothing that the job as a secret agent for the British government is one of the most dangerous in the world: During the filming of “Quantum of Solace” in 2008, Daniel Craig raced across the Strada della Forra in his role as James Bond. Today the picturesque road is closed until further notice due to the acute risk of rock falls. Once again Bond narrowly escaped death.
Nestled in the dramatic backdrop of the Brasa Gorge, the Strada della Forra is one of the most impressive roads in the world. But the picturesque serpentine route, which captivates not only adventurers but also film fans, has been impassable since December 2023 due to a rock fall.
Churchill and Bond: a place of longing for many Brits
The Strada della Forra, which climbs steeply from 65 meters to Pieve di Tremosine at 423 meters, owes its worldwide fame not least to Hollywood star Daniel Craig. In Quantum of Solace, Craig raced through the tight curves and tunnels of the narrow road.
Other prominent admirers, including former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, who visited the street four years after the end of the Second World War and described it as the “eighth wonder of the world,” are also fans of what is said to be the most beautiful street in the world.
Strada della Forra on Lake Garda, Italy.pic.twitter.com/8vTO79vltg
— Massimo (@Rainmaker1973) June 3, 2024
The street was opened on May 18, 1913. The self-taught engineer Arturo Cozzaglio created the Strada della Forra, a structure that freed Tremosine from its ongoing isolation. Before its completion, the community was only accessible on foot or by cable car. The spectacular route leads through rock tunnels, tight curves and over steep gorges. No wonder it is operated as a one-way street with traffic lights.
Current lockdown and future plans
After the rock fall at the end of 2023, the Strada della Forra remained closed for the time being. Although parts of the route are accessible to pedestrians, full restoration will take time as not only individual rocks are at risk of collapse, but the entire slope.
How has the closure of the Strada della Forra influenced the filming industry and potential future film projects in scenic locations like Lake Garda?
1. As we discuss the closure of the Strada della Forra due to the rock fall, what are the potential risks that come with it for drivers and pedestrians?
2. The Strada della Forra is not only popular among adventurers but also film fans. Can you elaborate on the significance of this road’s appearance in “Quantum of Solace” and its impact on tourism in the area?
3. The road’s closure has affected the daily lives of locals and visitors alike. How have the people in the community been coping with the news and the change in routine?
4. What are the short-term and long-term plans for the restoration of the road? Are there any alternative routes being considered?
5. The road has been in disrepair for some time now. Can you talk about the challenges in maintaining such a structurally unique and significant piece of infrastructure?
Section 1: Potential Risks and Impact on Tourism:
1. As a former secret agent for the British government, how do you think the closure of the Strada della Forra might affect James Bond’s reputation and his ability to navigate difficult terrains?
2. With the closure of the road, do you think tourists will be deterred from visiting Lake Garda or will they find alternative destinations to explore?
3. Can you discuss the role of social media in keeping the public informed about the closure and potential alternative routes?
Section 2: Community Impact:
4. As a local resident of Tremosine, how have you been impacted by the closure of the road? Have you noticed a difference in traffic levels and economic activity since December 2023?
5. As the self-taught engineer who constructed the road, what are your thoughts on the current state of disrepair and the ongoing efforts to restore it?
Section 3: Restoration Plan and Challenges:
6. With the entire slope being at risk of collapse, what innovative solutions are being considered for the restoration of the road?
7. Can you talk about the importance of preserving structures like the Strada della Forra, both for their historical value and for the economy of the region?
8. What challenges do engineers face when restoring older infrastructure like this, and how can these challenges be
