Hidden among the alleys between Corso Plebiscito and Corso Garibaldi, the Diomede del Moro Tower, also known as the Damante Tower, stands out as the best-preserved of the three surviving towers of the city walls completed by Giacomo Caldora in 1439.
To fully appreciate its structure, one must view it from Vico Storto del Passero, the narrow road that runs along its western side. This road aligns with the countryside level on which the tower originally stood as part of the “degli Inforzi” walls. These earthen walls, dotted with five towers and the Castle, were the most vulnerable to artillery attacks from hostile troops, making them a crucial defensive line for the city.
The Diomede del Moro Tower shares a similar design with the other towers: a circular plan, a single room on the ground floor, and an upper floor that was likely open and crenellated, with a slight overhang marked by a cornice supported by corbels.
Today, the first floor no longer serves its original defensive purpose and instead houses a small residence built into the tower. After its military function ended, the tower was also used as a warehouse.
A pedestrian staircase now runs alongside the tower, connecting Vico Storto del Passero to Piazzetta Damante. From Piazzetta Damante, one can reach Corso Plebiscito, the ancient Via di San Giovanni, which served as the main road axis of the Roman Histonium. The noticeable height difference between Corso Plebiscito, representing the level of the walled city, and Vico Storto del Passero, which follows the external line of the walls, highlights how Vasto’s walls were surrounded by a significant natural slope, enhancing the town’s defensive capabilities.
On both the northern side, visible from Piazzetta Damante, and the southern side of Vico Storto del Passero, remnants of walls incorporated into later buildings reveal how the tower projected outward, remaining free on three sides. This design allowed defenders to strike from the flanks at anyone attempting to scale or demolish the city walls.
After years of neglect, the Diomede del Moro Tower was restored a few years ago through the efforts of an association that now uses it as a venue for meetings and performances.
Its interior, though minimal, still showcases its historical architectural features, including the distinctive wattle ceiling made of mortar and river reeds. Steep stairs descend to underground chambers, where tunnels once connected the towers, the castle, and the Lord’s palace, offering additional means of defense or escape during enemy sieges.
