Torre di Abbacurrente, Defensive tower in Porto Torres, Italy
Torre di Abbacurrente is a defensive tower in Porto Torres on Sardinia's northern coast and rises about 12.5 meters (41 feet) high. The conical structure sits on a rocky ledge above the Gulf of Asinara and contains a single circular room with a reinforced dome.
The tower was constructed between 1571 and 1578 to protect the Sardinian coast from raids. Its construction was part of a broader strategy to defend island coastlines against maritime threats during that era.
The structure shows coastal fortification styles with its distinctive conical design, which still reflects the defensive architecture of its era today. Visitors can see how such towers were positioned as lookout posts across the landscape.
The entrance sits about four meters (13 feet) above ground, so careful planning is needed for a visit. Access must be arranged through local authorities, and conditions can vary depending on weather and maintenance work.
This structure was part of a communication system between multiple defensive towers on the coast, where optical signals were exchanged between it and the towers of Isola Piana and Trabucado. Visitors can still see the position that allowed clear sight lines to these other structures.
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