The “Soccorso – Rescue” Tower and Walkway

The Tower and Walkway (Camminamento) del Soccorso (XV century) are part of the fortifications designed by Brunelleschi, and must be observed in their function as part of a whole complex.

The Tower del Soccorso was built close to the port on the Arno river, which, before its diversion in the XVI century, used to pass close to the walls of the castle. and guaranteed control over the access wall to the castle, the “Camminamento”.

This was conceived by Brunelleschi as a privileged access route from the river to the fortress, in the event of a rebellion by the town of Vico or an attack from the surrounding area. In fact, Soccorso literally means “rescue“.

The imposing staircase that leads from the Torre del Soccorso up to the Rocca fortified by Brunelleschi has been recently opened  to visitors : on Saturdays from 6pm to 10pm and on Sundays from 9.30am to 12.30pm and from 6pm to 10pm. Special openings are also planned on any other evening, subject to online booking on the coopcapitolium.it website.