Defensive towers of Popiglio, Medieval defensive towers in San Marcello Piteglio, Italy

The Defensive towers of Popiglio are two stone towers at different heights standing within the remains of the Securana fortress, offering views across the Lima Valley and Pistoia Apennines. The structures are integrated into the mountain landscape and show the remnants of a medieval defensive installation.

The site originated from a Roman settlement in the 2nd century BC and later became a medieval fortress controlled by the Guidi Counts. The location thus played a role in regional control for more than a thousand years.

The site's name, Rocca Securana, is recorded in imperial diplomas of Arrigo VI (1191) and Federico II (1220 and 1247) as a possession of the Conti Guidi of Modigliana, feudal lords of the area. Around the mid-13th century, with Pistoia's push for local autonomy, it became a commune, freeing the territory from feudal rule.

Visitors can reach the towers by taking a beech forest path starting from a nearby parking area or by following the San Bartolomeo hiking trail. The route is walkable but requires reasonable fitness due to the mountain terrain.

The upper tower, now about half of its original 24 metres, still shows the elliptical wall circuit that once enclosed it, with traces of a building against its north-east side. The lower tower, though more ruined, stands taller than its twin and was likely an intermediate link between the village and the summit.