In spite of their ancient age, Cefalù’s defensive walls are well preserved, certainly contributing in making Cefalù look like an unconquerable fortress. The four gates, which used to interrupt the city walls and allow entrance to the city, are no longer there, except for Pescara Gate, which is the sole survivor. Two of the gates led to the farmlands and to the neighbouring towns. The remaining gates led to the sea.
Ossuna Gate is named after the Viceroy Duke of Ossuna, who had the gate built. Next to it there used to be a fortress, where once stood a tower built by the Ventimiglia family.