Torre di Castruccio, Medieval defensive tower in Avenza, Carrara, Italy.
Torre di Castruccio is a cylindrical defensive tower that rises near the Carrione stream in the Avenza district. The structure features a wider base with marble cornices built into its stone walls, creating a distinctive profile.
First mentioned in 1311, the tower underwent significant modifications between the 15th and 17th centuries to accommodate firearms. These changes reflected the military advances of the era and its defensive role.
Prisoners held inside between the 16th and 18th centuries carved graffiti depicting symbols of Christ's passion into the walls. These scratches tell the silent stories of people confined within its stone chambers.
The tower is located on Via Gino Menconi and connects to Piazza Carlo Finelli through an underground passage. This connection provides easy access to a nearby public park for visitors exploring the area.
In 1883, German historian Theodor Mommsen intervened to save the tower from demolition after it had been sold to private owners as a stone quarry. His actions prevented the medieval structure from being completely dismantled.
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