Torre Catena, torre di Verona
Torre Catena is a small medieval defensive tower standing on the Adige river in Verona. It was built as part of a chain system that could block boats and regulate traffic and trade passing through the city's waterway.
The tower was built in the early 1300s under Cangrande della Scala as part of Verona's river defenses. It remained in operation during Venetian rule starting in 1405, continuing to control boats and regulate traffic on the Adige.
The tower's name comes from chains that stretched across the Adige river to control boat traffic and trade. The surrounding area became known for its fishing community and inns, shaping the neighborhood's local culture for centuries.
The tower is not open to visitors but can be viewed from outside while crossing the Ponte Risorgimento or walking along the riverbank. The best views are from the bridge and the adjacent riverside path where you can see its structure clearly.
The neighborhood name Parona came from the innkeeper women called 'parona' who ran taverns by the river. Local fishermen used nets called 'renga' and the area was known for trading fish brought by northern sailors.
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