Torri saracene di Positano (Torre Trasita, Torre Sponda, Torre Fornillo)

Three historic watchtowers mark Positano's coast: Torre Sponda above the bay, Torre Trasita between the beaches and Torre Fornillo on the rocky headland above Fornillo beach. Their varied forms reflect successive periods of coastal defence.

Why it matters

The towers are part of a defensive system built to watch for raids from the sea. Their placement along the shoreline and the contrast among their plans show how coastal fortifications changed from the medieval period through the viceregal era.

What to notice

Torre Sponda is cylindrical and associated with the Angevin period; later defensive changes included gun slits and a scarp. Torre Trasita has a circular plan with two rooms, one above the other, beneath domed vaults. Torre Fornillo, built around 1582, is approximately hexagonal, with cross-vaulted rooms and a position overlooking the sea and Li Galli islands.

Context and history

The towers formed part of a network that used smoke or fire signals to warn of danger and direct people inland. Torre Fornillo later passed into private ownership and was altered by architect Gilbert Clavel, becoming known also as Torre Clavel. Torre Sponda and Torre Trasita likewise underwent later changes of use. The remains of Torre di Renzo, also called Torre di Arienzo, lie farther along the coast.