Torre di Poliporto

The Tower of Poliporto is a surviving fortified complex in Soverato associated with the town's ancient coastal landing place.

Why it matters

The fortification was built to protect commercial traffic at Poliporto, an ancient harbour area. Its surviving towers and battlements make it a distinctive example of small-scale coastal defence.

What to notice

The compact compound has corner towers and battlements, distinguishing it from the slender watchtowers used primarily for signalling. A local legend tells of a tunnel connecting the complex with the Galilea tower, although no published survey confirms the tunnel.

Context and history

The complex passed through several owners and uses. An 1808 map marks a fortification named Fortino di Paliporto near the old and new settlements of Soverato. The name Poliporto also survives in parish records from the seventeenth century.