Torre aragonese, Military tower in Torre Melissa, Italy
The Torre Aragonese sits on a headland extending into the Ionian Sea with an octagonal base, interior courtyard, and three distinct levels. A secondary square structure facing the sea was added to the original main body at a later time.
Construction began in the 16th century under Aragonese rule to protect the territory from Ottoman and Venetian attacks. This fortification was part of a larger system defending the Italian coast against pirates and foreign powers.
The tower houses a small museum with traditional tools and objects that show local craftsmanship and food culture from Calabria. This collection gives a sense of how people here lived and worked in earlier times.
The structure stands directly along the SS106 road in Torre Melissa, making it easy to reach. Visiting is straightforward as the location is flat and requires minimal climbing.
The tower functions today as headquarters for a local action group, maintaining an active connection to the present community. This unexpected use shows how historic structures adapt to modern needs.
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