Torre Scalambri, Coastal watchtower in Punta Secca, Italy
Torre Scalambri is a stone watchtower on the southern Sicilian coast in Punta Secca, built with thick walls and positioned to control the sea area below. The structure follows a square floor plan and retains original structural elements from when it was constructed.
Built in 1593, the watchtower was part of a network designed to defend against pirates and sea-based invaders. It worked together with other towers like Torre Vigliena and Torre di Mezzo to monitor the entire coastal region.
The tower reflects building methods common to the southern Sicilian coast and was positioned to watch over sea traffic of its time. Its structure follows patterns visitors can recognize today in similar coastal fortifications throughout the region.
The site sits directly along a sandy beach and is visible from several spots along the coastline. Visitors can easily explore the surroundings and have access to the natural beach areas around the structure.
Researchers today use advanced laser scanning technology to document the exact shape and original geometry of the tower. This scientific work helps understand the building techniques of that period better.
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