The clock tower is centrally located on Corso Umberto. Just because of its situation it is also called Middle Gate and separates the medieval village from the classical area. Built for the first time in the twelfth century on the remains of ancient defensive walls, the tower was razed by the invasion of the French troops of Louis XIV in 1676. In 1679, according to taorminian people will, it was rebuilt and at the same time the big clock was placed. Since then, it’s customary to identify it as the Clock Tower.