Ta' Lippija Tower: A Sentinel Over Ġnejna Bay
Explore Ta' Lippija Tower in Mġarr: a historic watchtower with stunning views of Ġnejna Bay and the Maltese coastline.
Ta' Lippija Tower, or Torri ta' Lippija, stands as a testament to Malta's strategic past. Constructed in 1637, it was the first of the Lascaris towers, financed by Giovanni Paolo Lascaris and designed by the Italian architect Vincenzo Maculani. The tower's location on the edge of Wardija Ridge provided a clear line of sight to Għajn Tuffieħa and Nadur Towers, enabling effective coastal surveillance. Originally known as Torre del Migiarro, the tower consisted of two stories with a single room on each floor. Access to the upper level was via a wooden ladder. The tower also had a chapel dedicated to Santa Agatha. The tower played a crucial role in protecting Ġnejna Bay and the families living in Mġarr from pirates. By the early 2000s, Ta' Lippija Tower had fallen into disrepair and was in danger of collapsing. However, it was restored in 2003 and is now in good condition. Today, visitors can explore the tower and enjoy the views of the surrounding countryside and the Mediterranean Sea.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and the best light for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the walk to the tower, as the terrain can be uneven.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit to ensure the best views.
A brief summary to Ta' Lippija Tower
- Mġarr, MT
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Mġarr, walk towards Triq il-Kbira (the main road). Follow the signs for Ta' Lippija Tower. The walk to the tower takes approximately 15 minutes and involves a slight uphill incline. Be prepared for uneven terrain.
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Public Transport
From Mġarr, take a bus towards the 'Rabat' route. Get off at the 'Ta' Lippija' bus stop. From the bus stop, walk uphill for about 5 minutes to reach Ta' Lippija Tower. Bus routes 101, 223, 225, and 44 serve Mġarr. A single bus ticket costs around €2.
