Torre Mozza, Coastal defensive tower in Piombino, Italy.
Torre Mozza is a stone defensive tower standing on the Piombino shoreline, built in layers over the centuries with a square base and fortified walls. Today it operates as an upscale hotel following comprehensive restoration work.
The Appiani family built this tower around 1500 to monitor ships and defend against pirate raids from North Africa. It was part of a coastal defense system that protected Tuscany's important trading routes.
The tower served as a watch point over shipping routes and as a symbol of control over the coast for the ruling family. Its presence shaped how people understood security and power along this stretch of Tuscan shoreline.
The tower sits right at the shoreline and is easily accessible by foot from nearby roads. Swimming in the sea near the tower is possible, particularly over the reef formation just offshore.
A submerged reef runs parallel to the shore, creating a natural shallow pool just offshore where the water stays calm. This formation makes it an unusual spot for swimming and snorkeling right next to the old structure.
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