The Tower, also known as the “Torraccia,” located at 808 meters above sea level near Massaprofoglio, is accessible on foot.

It is the ruin of a Varano fortification, possibly of Lombard origin, with a circular layout and a strategic position overlooking the Chienti Valley, surrounded by nearby woods.

It is said that many once came to this place in search of the legendary golden calf. From Massaprofoglio, a procession used to be held to the Torraccia on St. Peter’s Day.

The ruins of the Torraccia, located on the ridge of a small hill near the village of Prefoglio, are almost completely surrounded by a coppice of black hornbeam and manna ash. The view over the upper Chienti Valley is excellent, an area largely covered by natural woods, among which a remnant of Mediterranean scrub stands out. The spread of junipers to the east creates a suggestive backdrop, heralding the forest’s gradual reconquest of former grazing lands.

The site is not easily accessible, as it lies on the grassy eastern slope of Monte di Massa (1,305 m). The view toward the west is therefore mostly blocked by the mountain itself, while the view to the north, east, and southeast is good.

The site benefits from a complete absence of light pollution. The surrounding greenery ensures stable air conditions without heat turbulence during the night. Except for the rare occurrence of nighttime mist caused by a nearby stream, the site is therefore also ideal for observing deep-sky objects.