Tor Boacciana, Medieval tower in Ostia Antica, Rome, Italy.
Description
Tor Boacciana is a tower in Ostia Antica near Rome that blends Roman and medieval architectural elements using brick construction techniques. The structure stands close to the Tiber River mouth and displays solid masonry walls that reflect centuries of rebuilding and modification.
History
The tower was built during Emperor Trajan's reign around 112 AD and originally served as a lighthouse. It was later converted into a watchtower under Pope Martin V around 1420.
Culture
The Bovazzani family, who owned surrounding lands in the 12th century, gave their name to this structure through local naming traditions.
Practical
The tower is reached via Via di Tor Boacciana and sits near Fiumicino Airport and the modern Ponte della Scafa bridge. Visitors should check ahead whether the site is open, as it is sometimes visited as part of guided tours through Ostia Antica.
Did you know?
The structure functioned as a customs house around 1562 under Pope Pius IV before shoreline changes required services to move to Tor San Michele. This role as a trade control point revealed the economic importance of the location to the Papal States.
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