Torre Guevara

At the eastern edge of Potenza's historic center stands the Torre Guevara, a fascinating relic of medieval architecture that whispers tales of ancient times. This cylindrical stone tower, built in the 9th century, is all that remains of the once-mighty castle that dominated the city’s skyline. Its enduring presence offers a unique glimpse into the past, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

The Origins of Torre Guevara

The origins of the Torre Guevara are shrouded in mystery. Historical records, including the Istoria della Città di Potenza by Giuseppe Rendina, provide scant details about the castle's beginnings. It is believed that the tower was constructed on the remnants of an earlier fortification, possibly a detention structure. The tower itself predates the year 1000 and is likely of Lombard origin.

Initially serving as a watchtower around the 9th century, the Torre Guevara played a crucial role in the city’s defense against barbarian invasions. Its strategic location at the eastern end of Potenza's historic center allowed it to oversee the Basento River from its source to the narrow pass of Albano. This vantage point was so vital that the tower was likely much taller in its early days, as suggested by accounts describing it as an inaccessible tower that endured centuries of wear and seismic activity.

The Evolution of the Castle

Over time, the tower became the nucleus of a fortified structure that evolved into the castle of the Counts of Potenza, dating back to the 10th and 11th centuries. The castle's history is intertwined with the noble families that ruled the city. After Charles I of Anjou defeated Conradin of Swabia in 1268, the city, loyal to Conradin, was nearly destroyed. The Angevin forces seized the castle, removing it from the Counts and placing it under the control of a Royal Castellan.

During the Middle Ages, the tower served as a lookout tower, or maschio, designed to spot enemies from afar. Its height and strategic position made it an indispensable part of the city's defense system.

The Guevara Family's Influence

With the decline of the Angevin reign and the rise of the Aragonese, King Alfonso granted the city, now a county, to his loyal follower Don Innico de Guevara. The Guevara family left a lasting mark on Potenza, actively participating in the city's socio-political life. In 1445, Innico de Guevara initiated the restoration of the Norman-Swabian city walls, which had been partially destroyed and rebuilt during the Angevin period. The walls were fortified and equipped with numerous gates and watchtowers, including the Porta de la Mendola, Porta San Luca, and Portasalza.

The Guevara family also undertook significant architectural projects, such as the renovation of the Palazzo del Seggio, the reconstruction of the 13th-century cloister of San Francesco, and the convent and church of Santa Maria del Sepolcro, their preferred place of worship and burial site. By the late 15th century, the Guevara family had completed a new count's palace, leading to the abandonment of the castle as a residence. The castle then served as a hospice for the Capuchin Friars until 1612, when Don Alfonso de Guevara gave his daughter Beatrice in marriage to Enrico di Loffredo, transferring the city to the Loffredo family as part of her dowry.

From Monastery to Hospital

In 1621, Beatrice de Guevara donated the old castle to the Capuchin Friars of San Carlo, except for the tower, which the Counts retained. In 1626, Count Carlo di Loffredo, Beatrice's son, provided a substantial sum to the friars on the condition that they establish a church and monastery within the castle. In 1810, the castle was repurposed as the San Carlo Hospital by decree of Joachim Murat, King of Naples.

The castle, now functioning as a hospital, underwent various renovations, including the addition of a large building facing the current Piazza Bonaventura in 1927. After World War II, the castle was demolished, leaving only the ancient Torre Guevara as a testament to centuries of history.

The Present Day

In 1980, the Torre Guevara withstood the devastating Irpinia earthquake, though it required several restorations. Today, it houses the Order of Agronomists and Foresters of the Province of Potenza. The Order has created a public garden, Il Giardino dell’Agronomo - Gioacchino Viggiani, in memory of the first member of the Province of Potenza, and a permanent museum dedicated to him inside the tower. The Order's secretariat manages both the external garden and the internal museum.

Starting in 2024, the tower and its surrounding area will be accessible to visitors once again, thanks to the demolition of a school building and the restoration of the square in front of the tower. This project aims to reclaim the ancient perimeter of the castle, allowing visitors to explore this historical treasure in its full glory.

Architectural Features

The Torre Guevara is a simple yet robust structure, built with stones sourced from the Basento River. This stonework is characteristic of many medieval structures from the same period. The tower stands 20 meters tall and comprises three floors, with an internal diameter of 7 meters and an external diameter of 10 meters. It features 86 steps and seven windows.

In conclusion, the Torre Guevara is not just a historical monument but a symbol of Potenza's rich and turbulent past. Its walls echo the stories of noble families, strategic battles, and architectural evolution, making it an unmissable attraction for anyone visiting this charming Italian city.