Torra di Turghju, Genoese watchtower in Piana, France.

Torra di Turghju is a stone defensive tower built in the 17th century on the Capu Rossu promontory in Piana. The structure sits at around 331 meters elevation and commands views across the Mediterranean and the Corsican coastline.

The tower was built in 1608 by architect Anton Giovanni Sarrola as part of a Genoese defense strategy against Barbary pirates. It was one of many watchtowers constructed along the island to protect residents from coastal raids.

The name Turghju comes from the Corsican toponym for the Capu Rossu headland, and the tower is also called Torra di Capu Rossu after that promontory. It belonged to the Genoese coastal chain built between 1530 and 1620 against Barbary pirate raids, and its site now falls within the Réserve naturelle de Scandola, a UNESCO World Heritage property.

A marked hiking trail leads to the tower from the D81 road, and the route is technically demanding and requires good fitness. Visitors should bring plenty of water and sun protection, as shade is limited along the path.

The tower was built in 1608 under the direction of Anton Giovanni Sarrola, assisted by Marco Clemente and Taddeo Cantone. Look for the band of small square holes running across the upper section, visible in the masonry above the main opening.