The Mastio della Cittadella is the most prominent remnant of the city’s elaborate fortifications. It was a large gate giving access to the town and was designed by the Italian architect Francesco Paciotto (1521-1591). It was built between 1564 and 1577 on the orders of Duke Emmanuel Philibert. The citadel was the main target of the French during the siege of 1706 and witnessed the heroic actions of Pietro Micca, whose statue stands in front of the main gate. Today, it houses the National Artillery Museum.