Parata tower, Genoese defense tower in Ajaccio, France.
Parata Tower is a Genoese fortification built on a rocky promontory near Ajaccio. The circular structure contains multiple levels with chambers for the garrison and raised positions to watch over the sea.
The tower was built in the mid-1500s as part of a coastal defense network against seaborne attacks. It was one of many such structures constructed by Genoa to protect the island from raiders.
The name comes from an old Italian word meaning defense. The tower displays the typical construction style of its era, with protruding stone passages and narrow openings where watchers monitored the coastline.
The tower sits on an elevated rocky point and is reachable on foot through marked pathways. Entering the interior requires care because of narrow staircases and the uneven surfaces on the rocks.
A small number of permanent occupants watched over the gulf around the clock from this post. These men lived in simple quarters within the walls and had a harsh daily routine with minimal comfort.
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