Torre di San Cristoforo (Mariano II Tower)

Torre di San Cristoforo, also called La torre di Mariano II, in the historic center of Oristano.

former city gate / defensive tower

The Tower of San Cristoforo or Porta Ponti, also known as Mariano II, stands isolated in the center of Piazza Roma, recalling the noble past of medieval Oristano.The tower incorporates various wooden structures and devices. A winch positioned on the second floor operates a small drawbridge with chains and ropes, the loops of which are still visible on the back of the tower. A roller shutter and a tall double door complete the security system. In fact, this is the dual role of the Tower of Mariano: defensive bulwark and gateway to the north of the city. The tower opens onto the wrinkled maista (main road) that crosses the city as far as Porta a Mari, the southern access.The tower's defense is ensured by the numerous loopholes on its exposed sides and by the drain for pouring liquids on unwanted visitors. In addition, there is a substantial moat connected to a water drainage or drainage system. Some elevation reconstructions of the structures indicate the presence of an avant-corps or barbican, which, together with the smaller turrets along this stretch of wall, make the entrance to the city impregnable.The tower, like the rest of the fortifications, has undergone numerous alterations and repairs over time, highlighted by drawings and archival photographs from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These are complemented by valuable archival documents. In the 15th century, the towers underwent significant modifications, with additions with crenellated spires bringing the building's height from 19 to 28 meters. The Marquis of Oristano, Antonio Cubello, built these works around 1430, when the founder Bernardo Guardia created the city bell, placed under the arch of the raised part. The bell bears 24 Marian invocations to evoke the protection of the Virgin over the city of Oristano.
Source and further information: museooristano.it/view/s/e5f78456a7b84330a188723ad469e097