Qawra Tower: A Coastal Sentinel Turned Restaurant

Qawra Tower, or Torri tal-Qawra, stands as a testament to Malta's rich maritime history. Constructed in 1638 as one of the Lascaris towers, it formed a crucial link in the island's defense network. The tower's strategic location near Qawra Point, overlooking St. Paul's Bay and Salina Bay, allowed for effective surveillance against potential invaders.In 1715, an artillery battery was added to the tower, further enhancing its defensive capabilities. This semi-circular battery featured a low parapet and two blockhouses connected by a V-shaped redan. The tower was included on the Antiquities List of 1925. Before World War II, concrete gun emplacements and a pillbox were added.Today, Qawra Tower has been transformed into a restaurant, offering visitors a unique dining experience within its historic walls. While the battery has been altered to accommodate a swimming pool, the tower itself retains much of its original charm. Though some cement plastering has caused dilapidation, the structure still provides a glimpse into Malta's past. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding coastline while savoring Maltese cuisine.