The construction of the Aragonese Tower (Torre Melissa) can be dated to the sixteenth century, during the dominion of the Aragon on the South, when other watchtowers were also built to defend the communities of the kingdom from the Venetians and pirates.
The Tower, also known as "Torre Merlata" or Torrazzo, is clearly distinguished from the other Spanish watchtowers built between the 16th and 17th centuries.
The tower, with a circular structure, is spread over three overall levels: an internal courtyard with small rooms used as warehouses; the master rooms; the crowning glory.
Over the years, Torre Merlata has been owned by the princes of Strongoli, the Campitelli family and the Berlingeri family.
Today the fortress, owned by the municipality, houses the headquarters of the GAL (Local Action Group) High Marquisate of Crotone, where tools, instruments, typical products of the local cuisine and in general, of the Calabrian tradition are exhibited.
Aragonese Tower - Torre Melissa
Address: Strada Statale 106 Jonica, 6, 88814, Crotone
Phone: 0962 835801
Site:
https://www.melissaturismo.it/localita-torre-aragonese0962 835801Location inserted by
Bonometti Paola