Torre Lupara, Medieval tower in Fonte Nuova, Italy
Torre Lupara is a square stone tower from the 11th century in Fonte Nuova, Italy, built with bricks, flint, and limestone materials. Its interior contains multiple levels connected by wooden walkways, with numerous wall holes marking where beams once supported the structure.
Built in the 11th century as a defensive outpost, the tower served local noble families monitoring traffic on the Via Nomentana toward Mentana. It formed part of the region's medieval defense network.
The name derives from 'Lupara,' an ancient weapon possibly used in the tower's defense. The building displays a blend of bricks, flint, and limestone that shapes its appearance today.
The walls contain numerous holes that once held wooden beams and now serve as nesting spots for pigeons, so expect some soiling from birds. Access is through the southern entrance, and internal passages allow exploration of the different levels.
During the 19th century, the tower contained two internal vaults, with the upper one having collapsed while the lower vault remains between the ground and first floors. This vault structure reveals the tower's multi-level construction approach.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
