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Cesta (Second Tower)

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Cesta Tower, also known as the Second Tower (Seconda Torre), is located on the highest peak of Monte Titano, known as Fratta, at an altitude of 756 meters. Constructed in the 13th century atop the ruins of an ancient Roman fortress, it formed a vital part of San Marino's second defensive wall system. The tower features a pentagonal layout and underwent significant restoration in the 1920s to preserve its medieval aesthetic. Since 1956, the fortress has housed the Museum of Ancient Arms, showcasing an extensive collection of over 1,500 artifacts, including armor, swords, and early firearms dating from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. Its position at the mountain's highest point features the most spectacular 360-degree views of the republic and the distant Adriatic coast. Cesta is connected to the Guaita Tower via the scenic "Passo delle Streghe" (Path of the Witches). It stands as a remarkable historical monument, highlighting the strategic military importance of Monte Titano throughout the centuries.

Location: San Marino
Top sights: Cavallo · De La Fratta Castle · Sammarinese Museum of Ancient Arms
Nearby: Santagatha (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	6	6	9	13	17	22	25	25	20	16	11	7
Rain mm	55	71	69	63	69	46	38	47	79	79	88	68

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Cesta Tower is open to the public and can be climbed. Inside is the Museum of Ancient Arms, which can also be visited.

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Typical hours

Opening hours typically follow the seasonal schedule of the other towers on Monte Titano. In winter, access may be limited; please check on site.

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Photography

Photography in the tower and museum is usually allowed. In rooms with sensitive exhibits, flash may be prohibited.

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Time needed

Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for the climb and museum visit. Enjoy the view from the top; the extra time is worth it.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with the other towers of San Marino - Guaita and Montale. The old town is also within walking distance.

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Getting there

The tower is located on Monte Titano, accessible on foot or by cable car from San Marino city. Parking is available at the foot of the mountain.

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Insider tip

Visit the tower late in the afternoon to experience the golden light on the summit. The view of the Italian coastline is spectacular.

Geography

Coordinates

43.93200, 12.44900

Facts

Built in the 13th century on Roman ruins
Highest point in San Marino (756m)
Houses the Museum of Ancient Arms
Museum opened to the public in 1956
Exhibits over 1,500 historic weapons
Located on the Fratta summit

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mount Titano<1 km · SEExplore →

Colle di Borgo1 km · NExplore →

Poggio Casalino2 km · EExplore →

Pian di Gesto2 km · SWExplore →

Acquaviva Spring2 km · NWExplore →

Cà dei Lanci2 km · SEExplore →

Colle della Rocca2 km · NEExplore →

Monte del Casale3 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Cesta (Second Tower) (10)

Cavallo

A monument in the City of San Marino, depicting a horse.

De La Fratta Castle 🏰 castle

Second tower of San Marino, also called Cesta, located on Monte Titano.

Sammarinese Museum of Ancient Arms 🏛 museum

Military museum in the City of San Marino, displaying historical weapons.

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Tank from plasticine

A tank made of plasticine in the City of San Marino, an artistic attraction.

Monte Titano

Mountain in San Marino, home to the three towers of the republic.

L'elettromotrice "AB-03"

A historic electric railcar in the City of San Marino, exhibited as an attraction.

Teatro Titano

Theatre in the City of San Marino, hosting cultural performances.

The Witches Path

Viewpoint in the City of San Marino, overlooking the surrounding area.

Museo delle curiosità🏛 museum

Museum of curiosities in the City of San Marino, displaying unusual objects.

Torre del Montale🏰 castle

Third tower of San Marino, also called Montale, on Monte Titano.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is located in the Cesta tower?

The museum for ancient weapons is housed here.

Where exactly is the tower located?

On the highest peak of Monte Titano, about 755 meters above sea level.

How do you reach Cesta from Guaita?

Via the pretty 'Passo delle Streghe' (Witches' Path).

Are there toilets there?

Yes, there are public toilets at the entrance to the tower complex.

When does the weapon museum close?

It usually closes at 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM, depending on the season.

Cesta (Second Tower): where is it located?

Cesta (Second Tower) is located in San Marino.

Cesta (Second Tower): what is there to see?

Highlights include Cavallo, De La Fratta Castle, Sammarinese Museum of Ancient Arms.

Cesta (Second Tower): when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

Cesta (Second Tower): why is it worth visiting?

Cesta Tower, also known as the Second Tower (Seconda Torre), is located on the highest peak of Monte Titano, known as Fratta, at an altitude of 756 meters.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Cesta (Second Tower)

Best time to visit & climate