Built from local schist, with a conical shape and a height of 10 meters, Torre della Pelosa was constructed before 1578 as a part of the fortified structures system on the Sardegna coast. This tower was one of many built between the 16th century and the mid-19th century to serve as a defensive, observation, and communication network. Its strategic location on an island between Isola Piana and Capo Falcone allowed for the control of vessel traffic heading toward the low and sandy coast of the gulf.
The name Torre della Pelosa is derived from a nearby beach originally called 'Sa palosa', likely due to the abundance of seagrass deposited there. Its entrance was located six meters above the ground. Inside, the chamber features a fungus-shaped vault supported by a central pillar and is divided into three rooms, each equipped with a loophole. A narrow, steep staircase carved into the perimeter wall provides access to the terrace or parade ground.
The tower was decommissioned in 1846, four years after the suppression of the Royal administration of the towers, the institute that managed the coastal defense system of the island. During its service, the garrison was formed by a commander, an alcaide, a gunner, and three or four soldiers, who had at their disposal three large-caliber cannons, a shotgun, and some rifles.
Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons
Written by Nicolo Ciampini
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