The Tower of Punta Penne: Hidden Treasure on the Adriatic Coast
The Tower of Punta Penne is a true hidden treasure on the Adriatic coast of Italy. Located in the Abruzzo region, this historical tower is a captivating tourist attraction that offers a blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and breathtaking views. In this article, we will explore the unique features of the Tower of Punta Penne and the reasons why it should be on every traveler's wishlist.
The Tower of Punta Penne: Hidden Treasure on the Adriatic Coast
History and Architecture
The Tower of Punta Penne, marked on ancient maps and mentioned in historical documents, stands on a connecting road platform that has lost its significance. It is undergoing restoration and has miraculously been saved from the nearby port and lighthouse. It communicated to the north with the Torre dell'Asinella and to the south with the distant Torre di Petacciata, with Torre del Trigno as the only support removed. This is how Engineer Carlo Gambacorta describes it:
"This first square tower called la Penna in the territory of Vasto is distant from the Torre di Petacciato by eighteen miles and from the Tower of Asinella by four miles towards Abruzzo. It is well-located and of good construction, overseeing two large coves towards Abruzzo, joined to the said tower. It corresponds with the Tower of Asinella towards Abruzzo and Capitanata with the one of Petacciata, about which it was said to be eighteen miles away from the said tower and almost in the middle, with the Trigno river requiring the construction of a new tower that would guard the said river and be situated on the Abruzzo side. A small falconet is needed to oversee these coves, and one bell is enough. It is necessary to fix the cistern, as it does not hold water in winter and has been poorly constructed... This will cost about twenty-five ducats."
The tower measures 12 meters on each side at the base; it is built of bricks and completely plastered. It has a small window on each side on the first floor and a door on the uphill side, accessed by a two-ramp masonry staircase of later construction. The ground floor entrance doors are in disrepair on the uphill and south side. The bartizans of the machicolations have been tampered with, almost destroyed at that time.
The tower was built roughly in the center of the quadrilateral of the "refuge castle." The castle, surveyed in 1904 by Engineer Greco of the Civil Engineering Department in Chieti, still shows the ruins of the northwest square tower. The building is in a good state of preservation and is publicly owned, being in the city center.
Breathtaking Panoramas and Natural Beauty
One of the main attractions of the Tower of Punta Penne is the breathtaking panoramas that can be admired from its top. The deep blue of the sea stretches to the horizon, while the gentle green hills and sandy beaches create a charming scenery. It's an ideal place for photographers, who can capture spectacular images of this natural wonder.
In addition to the views, the Tower of Punta Penne is surrounded by rich biodiversity. It's part of the Punta Aderci Nature Reserve, which hosts a unique and diverse ecosystem. Nature enthusiasts can explore sand dunes, pine forests, marshes, and ponds, discovering a wide range of plant and animal species.
Activities and Tourist Attractions
The Tower of Punta Penne is much more than a simple historical structure. Its privileged position on the Adriatic coast offers numerous opportunities for recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy a sunny day on nearby beaches, hike in the Punta Aderci Nature Reserve, or engage in water sports like surfing or sailing.
Furthermore, the proximity to historic towns and villages like Vasto and Ortona provides the opportunity to further explore the region and discover its cultural and artistic heritage.
Conclusion
The Tower of Punta Penne represents a captivating tourist destination on the Italian Adriatic coast. Its millennia-old history, breathtaking views, and surrounding natural beauty make it an unmissable spot for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and travel enthusiasts. If you're planning to visit Abruzzo, make sure to include the Tower of Punta Penne on your list of destinations for a unique and unforgettable experience.
Author
Light Designer in everyday life, a traveler in my second life. A believer in the philosophy of solo travel, just to do as I please. I photograph and explore anything within my sight.
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