La Cesta
The highest of the peaks of Monte Titano
La Cesta is located on the highest of the peaks of Monte Titano, 739 meters (2,425 ft) above sea level. It is also known as the “Second Tower” or “Torre della Fratta” (Tower of the Scrub). “La Cesta” means “the basket” in English. There is a documented mention of the tower from 1253. However, it is assumed that a Roman guard post had already stood on this site much earlier. In 1320, a second wall and further fortifications were added. The gate to the courtyard dates from the 16th century.
Museum of Ancient Arms
Since 1956, the “Sammarinese Museum of Ancient Arms” (Museo delle armi antiche di San Marino) has been located in the tower. It consists of four rooms, in which around 2,.000 antique blades and firearms, as well as armor and uniforms, are exhibited. These include prototypes and experimental weapons, such as a dagger-pistol from 1730 and a double pistol with two barrels and two triggers from the late 19th century.
Facts
- Location: Central summit of Monte Titano
- Altitude: 739 m (2,425 ft)
- Other names: The Second Tower, Torre della Fratta (Italian for “Tower of the Scrub”).
- Built: before 1253
- San Marino coin motif: 1 euro coin from the second series
La Cesta Note
This unique souvenir note from the San Marino Series was developed in cooperation with the Poste San Marino and is dedicated to the Second Tower. It is printed on genuine banknote paper and has several modern security features such as UV ink and a gold foil patch in the shape of a coat of arms of San Marino. The obverse depicts the fortification. The reverse shows a view of the Second Tower and the “Witches' Pass” (Passo delle Streghe). The path that runs between the fortifications on Mount Titano owes its name to old stories about young women who are said to have gathered on the mountain to dance around bonfires. The San Marino Series, which comprises a total of eight souvenir notes, is also available in a booklet with lots of information and pictures.
Obverse: La Cesta, Second Tower of San Marino on Monte Titano, national coat of arms of San Marino, motto “Libertas” (Latin for "freedom")
Reverse: Witches' Pass, path connecting the first two towers of San Marino on Monte Titano, national coat of arms of San Marino, motto “Libertas” (Latin for "freedom")
| Dimensions: 145 x 70 mm (5.71 x 2.76 in) Material: Paper |
