Byzantine tower, Byzantine defense tower in Biccari, Italy

The Byzantine tower of Biccari is a circular stone building 23 metres tall with an external diameter of 13 metres; its walls exceed 3 metres thick at the base. It is built of irregular, some faceted, stones set in clay mortar and divided into three floors. A still-existing external staircase reaches the first floor, and many of the original windows were later walled up.

The tower was built when the Byzantine Empire held sway in southern Italy and served military defense purposes in the region. It stands as a remnant of this important historical period of medieval rule.

The tower's name recalls the Byzantine administration of southern Italy; a parchment written at Biccari in 1122 suggests it was built between 1116 and 1122 by the catapano Bogiano to defend his territory. Its walls are of irregular stones, some faceted, bonded with clayey mortar. A staircase, still standing, once gave access to the first floor.

The tower is accessible from the outside and sits in the heart of Biccari, making it easy to explore on foot. Wearing comfortable shoes is wise when walking around the structure and exploring the surrounding area.

The tower preserves its original stone foundation and circular design, making it one of the few remaining examples of Byzantine defense architecture in Puglia. This preservation allows visitors to see the authentic construction features from that era.