Discover the Tower of Soriasco, a fascinating medieval symbol of the Oltrepò Pavese. This historic tower, with its stone architecture and terracotta frieze, tells the story of the hamlet of the same name in the municipality of Santa Maria della Versa and of the ancient Lombard fortifications.
The Soriasco Tower, one of the most important medieval architectural testimonies of the Oltrepò Pavese, rises majestically over the hamlet of the same name in the municipality of Santa Maria della Versa, an enchanting location with probable Roman roots. Dating back to the 12th century, this tower represents a precious relic of the area‘s ancient defensive structures, enriching the landscape and historical profile of the village.
Architectural features of the Soriasco Tower
Built entirely of local stone, the Soriasco Tower has a square plan and rises vertically to a height of around twenty metres. Unlike other towers integrated into the walls, the tower was not part of the defensive walls: in fact, it was an autonomous structure, albeit in harmony with the other fortifications of the time. The tower is crowned by battlements emphasised by a terracotta frieze, a fine detail that adds to the elegance of the medieval construction, while a pitched roof protects it from the weather.
Located in the northern part of the village, near the church, the tower represents a prominent architectural element in both the urban profile of Santa Maria della Versa and in the hilly landscape of the Oltrepò Pavese. Its current use as a warehouse has allowed it to be discreetly preserved, keeping many original features intact.
The Tower of Soriasco in the Landscape of the Oltrepò Pavese
The Soriasco Tower is a landmark that embellishes the village, visible from the surrounding hills and easily recognisable due to its structure and strategic location. Further north, on the western side of the village, another tower is visible, one of the twelve that once reinforced the walls of Soriasco. All that remains of this second structure, which is now part of a residential building, is the stone base, embellished with a terracotta frieze and curved windows. This tower, although less visible, contributes to keeping the memory of the original walls alive.
Soriasco and its Past: A Brief History
Soriasco, probably of Roman origin, was transformed into a fortified village as early as the 11th century, with a mighty city wall that included twelve towers and a castle. The medieval fortress of Soriasco was erected on a hill overlooking the landscape, consolidating the strategic and defensive position of the village. Unfortunately, between 1215 and 1216, the castle was destroyed by forces from Piacenza and was never rebuilt. In the 18th century, a new castle residence was built in the southern part of the village, which was erroneously given the title of castle. However, the original remains of the medieval walls and towers are still visible in the historic centre, offering visitors a window into the past.
Conclusion: The Tower of Soriasco, Symbol of History and Local Identity
The Tower of Soriasco is much more than a historical monument: it is a symbol of the identity and history of a village that has withstood the centuries and preserved its medieval essence. With its unmistakable profile and the historical-architectural value it holds, the tower is a precious testimony to the fortified past of the Oltrepò Pavese. For those in search of a place rich in history and scenic beauty, Santa Maria della Versa and the Tower of Soriasco offer a unique travel experience, capable of transporting the visitor back in time, to discover the most ancient roots of the Pavese territory.
