La Guaita
The oldest and largest fortification
La Guaita, or the “First Tower”, is both the oldest and largest of the three fortifications of San Marino. It was built in the 11th century and served as a watchtower and a refuge for the inhabitants of Monte Titano. During the following centuries, numerous extensions and restorations were carried out.
Buildings
Surrounded by two walls, the fortress includes a chapel, a bell tower and former garrison quarters, which were used as prisons from the mid-18th century until 1959. The chapel is dedicated to Saint Barbara of Nicomedia. She is the patron saint of artillery, and there are several historic artillery pieces in the courtyard of the fortress. The bell tower probably dates from the 16th century and was formerly used to call on the population to defend the city. Today, the bells still ring on special anniversaries. The tower itself is unusual not only because of its pentagonal shape. It was built without foundations. “Guaita” comes from a local dialect and means “to keep watch”. It probably originally derived from the German word “Weite”, meaning “expanse”. In Italian, the tower is also called “La Rocca” (The Fortress).
Facts
- Location: Northernmost summit of Monte Titano
- Altitude: 637 m (2,090 ft)
- Other names: The First Tower, La Rocca (Italian for “The Fortress”)
- Built: 11th century
- San Marino coin motif: 5 euro cent coin from the first series
La Guaita Note
This unique souvenir note from the San Marino Series was developed in cooperation with the Poste San Marino and is dedicated to the First 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 Guaita, First 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 |
