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Origin and history

The tower of Senetosa, also known as torra di Sinitosa in Corsica, is a genoese tower in ruins located in the municipality of Sartène, in the department of South Corsica. Built in 1609, it is part of the defensive system put in place by the Genoese to protect the south-west coast of Corsica, then threatened by Turkish incursions. Although planned as early as 1573, its construction was not completed until the early 17th century, and it remained in service until the early 18th century.

The tower adopts a circular and massive structure, organized on three levels. The ground floor houses a tank fed by a pipe visible from the terrace. The first floor, accessible by a door, leads to a room covered with a dome, equipped with a fireplace and three niches. An integrated staircase in the thickness of the walls allows access to the upper terrace, protected by a mâchicoulis parapet. The stairway heal still retains remains of steps.

Classified as a historical monument by decree of 27 October 1992, the Senetosa Tower illustrates Genoese military architecture in Corsica. It is now owned by a public institution. Its current state, though ruined, makes it possible to observe the typical features of the watch towers of this time, designed to monitor and defend the Mediterranean coasts.

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