Consistence of memories and lightness of the present: the Rigena Tower in Larnaca, Cyprus

The contemporary tall fence around Rigena Tower in Larnaca (also known as Kiti or Perivolia Tower) isolates and protects the landmark from visitors, damage, or overexposure. Though not exceptionally tall, the tower commands attention from its position atop a prominent cliff, with a solid base and a restored top, standing out in an otherwise secluded landscape. This physical and symbolic separation, coupled with its various names, creates a surreal quality in which the tower’s identity becomes elusive. Conflicting online information and fragmented stories further obscure its real presence, despite its material solidity. Historically, the tower dates back to the Lusignan period (1092–1474), likely constructed by the Venetians to defend the Pervolia area. After centuries of neglect, it underwent significant restoration in the early XXth century, which largely shaped its current appearance. This contribution views the tower's isolation as an operational challenge, using it as a case study in research-oriented architectural survey. Building on prior investigations, the focus is on distinguishing restored components from original remains through a combination of graphical analysis and virtual reconstruction of lost elements. A photogrammetric survey was conducted, employing both new photography and crowdsourced images and videos found online. This comparative approach yielded two models - one from a direct survey, the other from online data - demonstrating how internet-sourced material can support documentation in challenging contexts. The results form a foundation for further reflection on the architectural proportions and possible reconstructions of similar towers in the historical defence network of the region. The combination of physical isolation, historical ambiguity, and digital methodologies opens a discussion on how such structures can be understood, documented, and virtually reconstructed to preserve their architectural and cultural significance.