Torre della Strega

Above the Fogliano district, a quadrangular medieval tower survives as part of the fortified chain linking Maranello, Spezzano and Montegibbio. Raised between the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries as a lookout and refuge, the Torre della Strega now stands beside platforms used for astronomical observation.

Why it matters

The tower is a surviving element of the hill defences that organised this landscape before the Ferrari works. It served as a lookout and refuge between the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries, within a fortified system linking the Spezzano castle and the castle of Maranello. Local tradition associates the network with Matilde di Canossa. The tower's hilltop position reflects its role in observing and signalling across the surrounding landscape.

What to notice

The quadrangular structure measures just under six metres on each side and rises to about seven metres. Its scale is consistent with a surveillance tower rather than a residence. Two circular platforms beside it reflect a modern astronomical use of the hilltop identified by the Planetario di Modena. The surrounding defensive geography also includes the former fortifications of Spezzano, Montegibbio and Maranello.

Context and history

The Fogliano hilltop formed part of a watchkeeping network across the first Maranello hills. The surviving masonry dates to between the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries, while local tradition associates the system with the Matildine organisation of the territory. Conservation has retained the tower as a ruin rather than reconstructing it; the nearby astronomical platforms add a contemporary scientific dimension to the historic site.