Torre del Sinarca – a historic landmark between past and present

History and description

Built in 1568 along the Adriatic coast of Molise, the Torre del Sinarca—named after the stream that supplied its cistern—was part of the coastal tower system established by the Kingdom of Naples to protect the territory from Saracen pirate raids. Commissioned by Cristiano de Villanova on the orders of the Spanish viceroy, the tower served defensive and lookout functions, forming part of a network of towers connected by visual signals such as fires and mirrors. Located north of Termoli, it has a square plan and rises on two levels in the shape of a truncated pyramid. Its construction materials include local stone, brick, and river breccia. On its walls, machicolations and battlements, typical of military structures of the time, are still visible. Restored in 1976, the tower has since been partially adapted for private and commercial use, while retaining its historical identity.

Curiosities

According to local legend, from the top of the Torre del Sinarca it was possible, using light signals, to send messages as far as Palermo in less than three hours.

Access

The tower can only be visited externally as a historic site, while its interior currently houses a restaurant.

How to reach it

Located on the seafront of Termoli, the tower can be reached by car via the SS16 Adriatica towards Termoli, by city bus, or by train to Termoli station.

Evocative and steeped in history, the Torre del Sinarca today represents a place where past and present meet on the Molise coastline—an excellent example of the recovery and enhancement of coastal heritage.

Photo credits: Pietro (Wikipedia) - Licensed by CC 3.0