Priamar Fortress, Savona, Italy

The Priamar Fortress is a fortress occupying the hill with the same name above the port of Savona. The fortress was built in 1542 by the Republic of Genoa on a promontory where in medieval times was the nucleus of Savona, by design of architect Giovanni Maria Olgiati. However, traces of pre-Roman, Roman and Byzantine presences in the site have been excavated in the past centuries, and are now on display in Savona's Archaeological Museum.

In the 17th century the fortress received bastions designed by the Spanish Royal engineer Domenico Sirena, and in the 18th century were added the commissar's, officers' and Sibilla palaces. In order to create space for the new structures, edifices of the medieval Savona, including its cathedral (built in the 9th century over a pagan temple), were demolished.

In 1746, in the course of the War of Austrian Succession, it was stormed by the Piedmontese grenadiers. In 1820, after the annexion of Liguria to Piedmont, it became a prison. During the Risorgimento, Italian patriot Giuseppe Mazzini was jailed in the Priamar Fortress.

The fortress, which could house up to 500 prisoners, remained Italy's main military prison until 1903, when its role was taken by the castle of Gaeta.

References:

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Castles and fortifications in Italy

User Reviews

Jerri Grunewald (8 months ago)
This castle is extraordinary! You can visit for free and parking is relatively cheap. Great views from the top and concerts are happening frequently..

Andrew Hovenden (10 months ago)
Very cool open fortress and former prison. Worth a stop. No tickets or lines.

Vitaliy Chumakov (2 years ago)
This place is too touristy and "trampled" to be a good place for tourists to visit. But, if you love old castles and everything connected with them, you can certainly visit it. From the top there is a good view of the city and port.

Tetiana Nechas (2 years ago)
When we arrived in Savona, we did not expect to see such a wonderful fortress, an incredibly beautiful place for a walk. Entrance is free. Despite the fact that the fortress has a toilet in its corners, it sometimes stinks of urine, which is disappointing but does not spoil the impression.

Roberto Green (4 years ago)
We had a lovely meal here, the waiting staff were excellent and the place had a lovely atmosphere.

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