Castle della Dragonara, Medieval castle in Camogli, Italy.
Castle della Dragonara is a fortified structure perched on a cliff overlooking the Gulf of Tigullio, built with heavy stone walls and watchtower platforms. The building's layout follows the rocky terrain, creating multiple vantage points for observation and defense.
The fortification was built in the 12th century by the Genoese Republic as a military station defending against sea raids along the coast. It remained an important strategic point for regional defense throughout the medieval and early modern periods.
The fortress reflects Camogli's deep ties to the sea, where fishing and seafaring shaped daily life for generations. Displays inside show how this coastal community passed down knowledge and skills related to maritime survival.
The site is accessible by marked hiking trails starting from Camogli's center, taking roughly an hour to reach on foot. Spring and autumn offer the best conditions, as summer heat and winter rain can make the paths challenging.
The fortress was linked to other coastal defenses through a system of beacon fires, allowing urgent warnings to spread within minutes across the region. From the towers today, visitors can trace the positions of other fortifications that once formed this protective chain.
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