Castle of Monterosso

Castle in Monterosso al Mare

Castle Of Monterosso
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Emilia d'Amelio

The ancient castrum of the Obertenghi, potentially originating from the seventh century Lombard settlers, stood as Monterosso’s initial defensive settlement. Likely employed by local lords like the Lagneto family, it was the Republic of Genoa that fortified the village in the early 13th century to safeguard against Saracen incursions. Following a brief contention with Pisa, Monterosso’s castle returned to Genoese control in 1254.

The Genoese defensive system was notably robust. By the 16th century, alongside the castle, it encompassed thirteen towers and a protective curtain wall. Among the surviving remnants are the present bell tower of the San Giovanni Battista church, an ancient watchtower, the Aurora Tower situated below the San Cristoforo hill and the castle, and a tower in proximity to the Giant statue.

Presently, the castle, positioned overlooking the sea, has largely faded and serves as a municipal cemetery. Three towers stand in ruins, with sections of walls featuring some battlements, preserving vestiges of the citadel’s former presence.

The Castle of Monterosso appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Monterosso al Mare!

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Visiting Castle of Monterosso

Address: Cimitero Monterosso, 19016 Monterosso al Mare SP, Italy
Duration: 20 minutes

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