Rocca Guaita

The concept of liberty is very important to the residents of San Marino and The Three Towers really encapsulate the feeling of freedom and protection that is so integral to this society. It’s no wonder they are proudly displayed on the flag and coat of arms. If you look above the entrance to the tower you will see the coat of arms. This is a baroque example that dates back to the 1600s.
The first tower is known as Guaita Rocca, it dates back to the 10th Century though has been lovingly reinforced over the years to protect and preserve it. This tower has no foundations as they built it straight onto the rock. Like the other two towers in San Marino Guaita Rocca has a pentagonal base. It is the oldest and perhaps the most famous of the three towers, though as a trio they are renowned throughout the world.
The double walls are solid and strong and the population of San Marino used to gather here during sieges to stay safe. Various parts of the tower have been used historically as a prison, and the tower was still used for this purpose well into the 1970s.
As you enter the courtyard you will see some pieces from the Second World War. The two mortars were a gift from the Italian king, Vittorio Emanuele II. There are also two canons which were a gift from Vittorio Emanuele III. These canons are still fired during national festivals, by the Guardia di Rocca who we’ll meet a little later on.
Did you know that during World War II San Marino was used as refuge for people who were seeking safety? Being such a small republic, San Marino couldn’t defend themselves and chose diplomacy instead. Hundreds of thousands of lives were saved, including many Jews who escaped from concentration camps.