Torre del Serpe

The Torre del Serpe is a cylindrical coastal tower above the Baia delle Orte south of Otranto and a symbol of the city.

Why it matters

The tower links Otranto's maritime history with the coastal defence network established against raids. Its image also appears in the city's coat of arms, where the serpent legend has become part of local identity.

What to notice

The simple cylindrical masonry differs from the more heavily fortified towers built for artillery. Its coastal position connected it visually with other watchpoints along the Salento shore.

Context and history

The tower's earliest role may have been as a maritime beacon, although whether it originated in Roman or medieval times remains uncertain. From the sixteenth century it formed part of the coastal watch system. A restoration was carried out in 1997. Local legend tells of a serpent that extinguished the tower's lamp, a story reflected in Otranto's civic emblem.