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Montale (Third Tower)
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Landmark
Montale Tower, the Third Tower (Terza Torre), is the smallest and most secluded of the three defensive structures on Monte Titano in San Marino. Built in the 14th century, its primary purpose was to complete the defensive line and watch for potential threats from the rival Malatesta family in nearby Rimini. Unlike the other two towers, the interior of Montale is not open to the public and it features a single high-level entrance for security. Inside, there is an eight-meter-deep pit known as "Il Fondo della Torre," which was historically used as a prison. The tower has a slender, quadrilateral plan and stands isolated on the easternmost ridge of the mountain. Despite its modest size, it played a crucial role as a lookout post, offering extensive visibility over the surrounding valleys. Surrounded by lush forest, the area around the tower provides a peaceful retreat for hikers. Montale is an essential component of the UNESCO World Heritage site and completes the iconic image of San Marino's three peaks.
- Location: San Marino
- Top sights: L'elettromotrice "AB-03" · Torre del Montale · Kursaal Sala Congressi
- Nearby: Corianino (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 6 | 6 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 22 | 25 | 25 | 20 | 16 | 11 | 7 |
| Rain mm | 55 | 71 | 69 | 63 | 69 | 46 | 38 | 47 | 79 | 79 | 88 | 68 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Montale is the smallest of the three towers of San Marino and is not open to the public. The tower can only be viewed from outside while enjoying the surrounding landscape.
Typical hours
Since the tower cannot be entered, there are no opening hours. The exterior view is freely accessible at any time, best in daylight.
Photography
Photography from outside is allowed at any time, a tripod is recommended due to uneven terrain. Particularly nice shots are achieved with the hill and castle wall behind.
Time needed
For viewing Montale from outside, allow about 10 to 20 minutes. The short walk to the tower also features a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the other two towers, Guaita and Cesta, both of which are open. The old town of San Marino with its museums and shops is also within walking distance.
Getting there
Reach Montale on foot via the hiking path from the old town. The climb is steep, but the view rewards the effort.
Insider tip
Combine the viewing with a rest on one of the nearby benches. Continue hiking to Cesta, the lookout tower with a museum.
Geography
Facts
- Built during the 14th century
- Smallest of the three towers
- Contains an 8-meter deep prison pit
- Internal access is restricted to the public
- Watchtower against the Malatesta family
- Slender quadrilateral architectural plan
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Montale (Third Tower) (10)
Monte Titano
Mountain on which the old town of San Marino sits.
Sammarinese Museum of Ancient Arms🏛 museum
Military museum with historic weapons and armor.
De La Fratta Castle🏰 castle
Second of San Marino's three towers, also called Cesta.
Tank from plasticine
Artwork: a tank made of plasticine in Montale.
The Witches Path
Viewpoint overlooking the San Marino countryside.
Teatro Titano
Theatre building in Montale.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the Montale tower open to visitors?
It can only be visited from the outside; the interior is not accessible.
Why was this tower built?
It served mainly as a watchtower and for communication between the peaks.
How far is the walk there?
From the second tower, it is about a 10-15 minute walk through the forest.
Are there dining facilities there?
No, Montale is the most remote tower, with no cafes.
Is the walk to the third tower worth it?
Yes, for nature lovers, the quiet forest path is highly recommended.
Montale (Third Tower): where is it located?
Montale (Third Tower) is located in San Marino.
Montale (Third Tower): what is there to see?
Highlights include L'elettromotrice "AB-03", Torre del Montale, Kursaal Sala Congressi.
Montale (Third Tower): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
Montale (Third Tower): why is it worth visiting?
Montale Tower, the Third Tower (Terza Torre), is the smallest and most secluded of the three defensive structures on Monte Titano in San Marino.
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