Torre delle Mandre in Altavillese

Torre delle Mandre in Altavillese

Source and license: Berthold Werner / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0, resized

Torre delle Mandre, known as Torre Normanna, was built during the Aragonese period to defend against Maghrebi corsairs and pirates.

Torre delle Mandre, popularly known as Torre Normanna, is a struttura architettonica in Altavillese, Palermo. Contrary to common belief, the tower does not belong to the Norman era but dates to the Aragonese period, with the first historical records of its existence appearing in 1557.

Positioned on Capo Crosso, between the territories of Altavilla Milicia and Trabia, the structure is located in a strategic and panoramic point. It offers a view that extends from Capo Zafferano to the coastal territories of Campofelice di Roccella. During the 15th and 17th centuries, the tower responded to the needs of defense against attacks from Maghrebi corsairs and pirates who frequently plundered Sicilian coastal territories.

Today, the tower is under private ownership and remains in good condition with no worrying signs of architectural degradation. The territory belonged to the Commune of Caccamo at least until 1855. The tower and the surrounding area appeared in a scene in the film Il 7 e l'8 by the comedy duo Ficarra e Picone.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons

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