Codice Romano Carratelli

Abstract

[EN] The “Romano Carratelli Code” is a late sixteenth century manuscript comprising 99 watercoloured pages (non-contemporary numbering from 1 to 90 in folio), contemporary binding in rigid parchment, handwritten titles on spine, spine with one missing part. It is a splendid fresh watercolour folio depicting the defence system of the coastal areas of Calabria Ultra with illustrations of its garrison towns, castles, watchtowers and surroundings. It includes a detailed description of the various types and features of existing towers and towers under construction as well as an indication of other sites where new watchtowers are necessary. The strategic choice to construct a complete system of watchtowers was a political one made by Charles V and Philip II and the task of drawing up the report was given on the orders of the Viceroy Juan de Zuniga (1586-1595). This document is the most ancient iconography available to historiographers of coastal of Calabria Ultra.