First Tower of San Marino: Guaita
Majestic and imposing, San Marino’s First Tower, known as Guaita, dominates Mount Titan’s profile like a faithful guardian of time. This fortress, the oldest and largest of the three Sammarinese towers, tells a millennial story of freedom and independence.
A Journey into the Heart of the Fortress
The Guaita, made accessible to the public after its 1930 restoration, houses within its walls a mosaic of history and culture that unveils itself step by step. The path through the tower is a journey through time that reveals continuous treasures to visitors’ eyes.
Hidden Treasures and Sacred Places
In the heart of the fortress, the small Chapel of Saint Barbara, built in 1960, keeps religious tradition alive: every December 4th, on the feast day of the patron saint of Artillery, its walls host a suggestive Eucharistic celebration.
The ancient walls of Guaita hide precious testimonies of the past: the Comacine inscriptions, including a notable representation of a long dagger, tell the story of the skill and dedication of the master builders who shaped this fortress.
From Refuge to Prison
Guaita’s history is marked by continuous evolution: originally built as a refuge for the mount’s guardians, in the 16th century some of its rooms were transformed into prisons, maintaining this function until 1970, when the new Capuchin prison was inaugurated.
The Ancient Heart: The Keep
The true jewel of the First Tower is the Keep, the original nucleus of the fortress that has remained unchanged through the centuries. This structure represents Guaita’s most authentic essence, a silent witness to centuries of Sammarinese history.
The Great Bell: Voice of Freedom
In the mid-16th century, the construction of the “Campanone” (Great Bell) added a fundamental element to the tower. This imposing bell tower, originally used as an alarm system for citizens, today rings its peals during major civil and religious celebrations.
A Breathtaking Panorama
The most exciting experience of the visit is undoubtedly the walk along the battlements. From here, the view spans from the Adriatic to Mount Carpegna, extending to Mount Catria on the clearest days, offering a vista that no photograph can truly capture.
Visiting Information
Opening Hours:
- From June 20 to September 10: 8:00-20:00 (last entry 19:30)
- From September 11 to June 19: 9:00-17:00 (last entry 16:30)
Tickets: Prices start from €3, with advantageous subscription options to visit all state museums.
A local’s tip: Plan your visit during sunset hours in the summer season: the setting sun creates a magical atmosphere that makes the experience even more unforgettable.
At the end of your visit, your journey can continue through the suggestive Witches’ Path, then up to the Second Tower, completing the exploration of this extraordinary defensive system.
Fun fact: The First Tower Guaita is so important to Sammarinese identity that it was chosen to adorn the Republic’s fifty-cent Euro coin.
