| Masseria Celsorizzo is one of the most interesting examples of fortified masseria or farmhouses which were built in the Salento area from the 15th century onwards, often replacing the rural villages which had been abandoned at the end of the Medieval era.
The masseria, now in a state of decay, is just outside the town of Acquarica del Capo, on the road leading to Torre Mozza.
The building complex is dominated by an impressive square town, with scarp walls, which with its three floors can be seen from a distance all around.
The tower was accessed by an external stairway, which led to the first floor, this entrance was recently blocked.
The top of the tower has a parapet which juts out, held up by beautiful moulded brackets and a small watch tower on one side.
Between the brackets are slit windows, for shooting arrows at any enemies without being exposed.
One of the most fascinating parts of the structure is to be seen inside the tower.
A small medieval church is an integral part of the structure, here there are some frescoes which are still in good condition.
Among these you can make out pictures of the Last Supper, the Saints Cosma and Damiano, and a horse.
In the apse the picture shows Christ Almighty and Saint John Chrysostom with the scroll.
The fortified complex of buildings also includes a nice dovecote where the date of its foundation (1550) can be seen together with an inscription dedicated to the noble family of Guarino.
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