Embriaci Tower, Medieval tower in historic center, Genoa, Italy.
The Embriaci Tower is a medieval fortification in Genoa's historic center that rises approximately 41 meters with large rusticated stone blocks forming its walls. The facade features narrow openings cut through the curtain walls that allow light to penetrate the interior spaces.
The tower was constructed between 1100 and 1200 and survived a 1196 edict that required all other towers in Genoa to be reduced to a height of approximately 24 meters. It retained its original height while other structures in the city were demolished.
The tower stands as a symbol of the architectural competition between Genoese noble families, who built tall structures to demonstrate their wealth and power in medieval society. These vertical structures were visible across the city and marked the territories of the most influential families.
The tower is located within the narrow medieval streets of the UNESCO World Heritage site and can be observed from the outside while exploring the surrounding area. The tight layout of the old city requires walking and taking time to navigate through its passages.
The stones used for construction came from Genoa's first city walls dating to 864, connecting this structure directly to the city's ancient fortifications. This reuse of old stone shows how the city incorporated its own history into its new buildings.
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