Tor di Caldano, Coastal tower in Lavinio, Italy
Tor di Caldano is a circular stone tower positioned on a rocky promontory along the Mediterranean coast near Anzio. The structure rises from a rocky outgrowth over the water and marks an important point on the region's historical coastline.
The tower was built in the mid-17th century as a defensive structure to protect sulfur mines that operated from 1569 to 1828. During the Napoleonic Wars, it sustained damage from British naval bombardment.
The tower sits within a protected natural area where visitors explore the relationship between historical structures and coastal landscapes. The surrounding space is mainly used today by walkers and nature enthusiasts who appreciate the blend of history and land preservation.
Access to the reserve is limited to certain weekdays, so visitors should check opening days in advance. The best time to explore is in the morning when coastal light is favorable and the area is less crowded.
The site is noted for active sulfur springs that create yellow stains along the rocky shoreline and produce a distinctive mineral scent. These geochemical activities come from the same underground sources that miners exploited centuries earlier.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.