A symbol of Portoscuso’s birth, the Tower is built on a rocky part overlooking the entire surrounding gulf.
Built around 1590 by the Spanish royal government for the purpose of defense against invasions from the sea and to protect the proceeds of tuna and coral fishing, it housed the Alcaide and a gunner, directly appointed by the King, and four soldiers; there were also two artillery pieces: a “sacre” and a “medio sacre.”
Destroyed by those who looted and plundered the tuna fishery, it was rebuilt at different times always for coastal defense purposes.
The last reconstruction was in 1760.
From 1842 to 1970 it housed the Royal Guardia delle Gabelle (Finance).
In 1970 it was recognized as a monumental property and came under the protection of the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, which later assigned it to the Pro Loco Association of Portoscuso.
Today the Tower is used as an Ethnographic Museum and as a site for cultural events and conferences.
