The first document of Domofole Castle dates from 1023. It belonged to the wealthy Vicedomini family. It was destroyed in the late 13th century during the wars between Guelphs and Ghibellines families and rebuilt soon after. The quadrangular tower was built with very thick walls and numerous loopholes, or arrow slits.
This castle was destroyed in 1524 and abandoned to its fate after playing a valiant role in the many conflicts that have defined Valtellina’s history.
All that remains of the Castello di Domofole today is the imposing grey stone tower, parts of the circular wall, and remains of nearby churches.
The Walls of Constantinople are a series of defensive stone walls that have surrounded and protected the city of Constantinople (today Istanbul) since its founding as the new capital of the Roman Empire by Constantine the Great. With numerous additions and modifications during their history, they were the last great fortification system of antiquity, and one of the most complex and elaborate systems ever built. They were also the largest and strongest fortification in both the ancient and medieval world.
Initially built by Constantine the Great, the walls surrounded the new city on all sides, protecting it against attack from both sea and land. As the city grew, the famous double line of the Theodosian Walls was built in the 5th century. Although the other sections of the walls were less elaborate, they were, when well-manned, almost impregnable for any medieval besieger.