Torre Squillace

Torre Squillace is a square tower on the coast of Nardò, standing about 50 meters from the sea at a low elevation. It displays typical military architecture of the Mediterranean coast, built with solid construction designed for defense purposes.

The tower was completed in 1570 by Pensino Tarantino from Copertino as part of a coastal defense system against Turkish and Corsair attacks. It represents a period when fortifications were urgently built to counter maritime threats along southern Italy's coastline.

The structure carries the local name Li Scianuri, derived from scilla, a wild onion species that grows abundantly in the surrounding area. This name remains part of how locals refer to and think about this coastal landmark.

The tower is accessible from the land and offers clear views toward the coast and neighboring defensive structures. It is best visited during daylight to fully appreciate the structure and the surrounding coastal landscape.

The tower belongs to the Nardò series of fortifications, designed by the father-and-son team of Vincenzo and Angelo Spalletta from the region. These architects left their mark on the area's coastal defenses through their distinctive designs.

Location: Nardò

Architectural style: Renaissance

Part of: Coastal towers in Salento

Address: Via Francesco Cilea - 73048 - Nardò (LE)

GPS coordinates: 40.23500,17.91000

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:05