| At Santa Margherita Ligure the Castello Mediovale (Medieval Castle) was built after the decision of the Republican Senate of Genoa in 1550. This fort is located on the rock of S. Temo, a perfect position in order to defend the territory against the barbaric raids of the famous Saracen pirate Dragut also known as “Barbarossa.” The fort is of small dimensions with rounded corners and a tower located in the South-West corner. The fort underwent maintenance and strengthening of its armaments up until the first ten years of the 17th century. In the 18th century due to the advancement of the war front between the great European powers the castle lost its military importance. |
After the war of ’15-’18, the castle was restored and was given the name Sacrario dei Caduti. The castle is now owned by the local government, however many cultural and artistic festivals are held. |
At Rapallo the Castle was built on a rock which was linked to the coast by a thin strip of land. However, the castle was built after a horrific raid by the Saracen pirate Dragut, who attacked and burnt Rapallo, capturing more than 100 people.
The castle was used for defensive purposes and as a prison, and in the beginning of the 17th century up until the mid 17th century it became the home of the Capitano di Rapallo. In the following centuries it was restored and transformed. In the beginning of the 19th century the castle was armed with cannons and was guarded by soldiers so it could be used as a prison and as a defensive structure. In 1958 the local government of Rapallo become owner of the castle and in 1963 it was once again restored to be used as an expository.
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