Fortress Guaita
Snapshots

Snapshot: Visiting the imposing Fortress Guaita

Fortress Guaita in San Marino

Enclaved within Italy is the micro state of San Marino, lying north-east of the Apennine Mountains. And framing the capital of San Marino, at the highest point of the city is the dramatic Guaita Fortress, a majestic tower built on the peak of Monte Titano.

One of three structures surrounding the capital city, Fortress Guaita is the oldest, being erected in the 11th century. These three towers (the other two are De La Fratta and Tower Montale) are commonly known as the Cake of the Three Towers- all three are perched on hilltops that looked like layered cakes. The locals are clearly starry-eyed, romanticizing the harsh and imposing fortresses as desserts, because they are anything but.

Standing tall against relentless weather for over 10 centuries, Fortress Guaita once served as a prison in the 1970s. This enduring Middle Ages structure is pentagonal in shape, with a central fortress tower fortified with two rings of walls. The outer wall is lined with battlements, and you can see the battle damages left behind after years of war. The tower itself has gone through a face lift in the 15th century but remained architecturally unchanged till today, making it a popular attraction in San Marino. Visitors can walk the hallways of centuries past, admire how creative ancient architects were to build this structure with limited resources and imagine what life was like here back then. The Tower comes complete with artillery pieces originated from the Italian Kings Viktor Emanuel II and Viktor Emanuel III, which are fired on significant dates.

Visitors here can also drink in the picturesque views offered at the top of the tower. You’ll get sweeping views of the city and the surrounding peaks and valleys of the lush landscape.

Tickets: Be prepared to pay 4 Euros to enter the Fortress, but if you want to visit all three, it’ll cost you 10 Euros. (Visiting 2 towers will set you back by 7 Euros).

Did you know: Fortress Guaita (along with the other two fortresses) is a national symbol of the people of San Marino, and is depicted in it National flag and country emblem.

Have you ever visited this imposing fortress before?

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