Description

The Célio Tower Tortosa is one of the city's most important medieval fortifications and one of the finest viewpoints over the Remolins district and the northern section of the historic walled enclosure. Standing beside the Célio ravine, it once protected a strategic point in the 14th-century defensive walls and today offers visitors the opportunity to explore one of the best-preserved sections of Tortosa's medieval fortifications.


Also known as the Great Tower or the Round Tower, it is immediately recognisable by its circular plan, imposing appearance and height of almost fifteen metres. Built in the late 14th century, it defended the junction between the city wall leading up to the Saint John Outworks and the section that continued towards the former Vimpeçol Gate and the River Ebro. This defensive line protected the Remolins district and the historic Jewish quarter.


The Célio Tower Tortosa has recently been restored and is now open to visitors. Access is provided via the 14th-century city walls, beginning at the Prince's Gardens, where visitors can follow the former wall walk to the tower. This route offers an excellent introduction to Tortosa's medieval defences while providing a unique perspective over the historic city.


From the top of the tower, visitors enjoy panoramic views of the Remolins district, the Suda Castle, the Saint John Outworks and the surviving stretches of the medieval walls. It is also one of the best places to appreciate the northern part of Tortosa's historic centre and understand how the city's defensive system evolved over the centuries.


The tower still preserves much of its original stone masonry, together with the remains of the junction where it connected to the city walls and the spiral staircase that once provided access to both the tower and the wall walk. These surviving architectural features, combined with careful restoration work, reveal the different construction phases that have shaped the monument over time.


A visit to the Célio Tower Tortosa is the perfect complement to exploring the Prince's Gardens, the 14th-century walls and the fortifications of the Suda, offering a fascinating insight into Tortosa's medieval military heritage.