Castello di Punta Ala, 16th-century fortification in Punta Ala, Italy
The Castello di Punta Ala is a 16th-century fortress featuring a polygonal bastion, curtain walls, and a central square tower as its core. The entrance is marked by a portal with an external staircase that leads to the structure.
The Grand Duke of Tuscany, Cosimo I de' Medici, commissioned this coastal defense structure in 1562, with construction completed by 1563. It was part of a broader strategy to protect Tuscan shores from raids and incursions.
A chapel dedicated to Saint Anthony was added to the fortress in 1707, showing how religious spaces merged with military structures. You can still see this blend of purposes reflected in the building today.
The site features modern amenities including an outdoor pool open from April through September and a professional kitchen facility. Seasonal timing is important to consider if you want to enjoy all available features during your visit.
From its elevated position, the fortress maintains visual contact with three other historical towers: Torre Hidalgo, Torre di Cala Galera, and Appiani Tower. This sightline reveals how coastal fortifications worked as a connected network.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
