BOLZANO

In 1928, studies began for a new Trento class heavy cruiser but with some differences respect the others. The new ship must keep the same main artillery, a maximum speed of 36 knots and facilities for a Fleet’s Admiral as in the Zara class cruisers. In 1929 the construction of the Bolzano cruiser was approved. She was similar to Trento class, but with many differences in the protection scheme and the boiler equipment among others. Even the 203mm guns were different, being these of a lighter type. In 1941 she took part in the Battle of Cape Matapan and was torpedoed in August by the HMS Triumph submarine, but withoutserious damage. Again, in August 1942 Bolzano was attacked by the HMS Unbroken submarine, and in this occasion she had serious damages and was towed to port. Damages were not repaired during the rest of the War and on June 21, 1944, she was sunk in an Anglo-Italian frogmen attack using Chariot manned torpedoes.

BOLZANO gallery and more info