Torre del Gerro

Defensive watchtower of the XVI century.

This tower, 13.5 m high, is part of the network of fortifications erected along the coast in the 16th century to prevent the constant incursions of Barbary pirates.

The truncated cone-shaped circular tower has two superimposed bodies, the lower one acting as a buttress of the structure.

The access door to its interior is elevated from the base. Two machicolations defend the access door.The coat of arms of Charles V stands out, with 4 bars, the crown of the old Kingdom of Valencia and the double-headed eagle of the Austrians. In the interior the different levels are communicated by an overture, which is accessed by means of a mobile staircase or simple rope.

There is evidence of another tower located in the current lighthouse of Sant Antoni, in addition to the tower of L’Almadrava. The towers had visual communication, although they also used other means, such as signals with mirrors, fire, etc. They had guards who were in charge of the custody of the towers, as well as of eventual transfers to other towers or citadels in case of danger.

Its name comes from its curious “gerro” or “pitxer” (pitcher) shape.

Situation

The Gerro tower is located at the end of the Les Rotes road, on the border with the municipality of Xàbia.

It can be reached on foot from Vía Láctea Street.