Fra Diegu Monument
Fra Diegu Monument: A Glimpse into Malta's Rich History
The Round Tower: A Historic Sentinel in Ħamrun
Discover the Round Tower in Ħamrun: a 17th-century landmark offering a unique glimpse into Malta's water management and military history.
The Round Tower in Ħamrun, Malta, is a 17th-century fortification and a unique example of the island's architectural and military history. Originally part of the Wignacourt Aqueduct system, it served as a water inspection tower and a defensive structure. Today, it stands as a historical landmark amidst the urban landscape, offering a glimpse into Malta's past.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Round Tower
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
VFPP+F7P, San Gejtanu, Hamrun, MT
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Valletta, take bus line 52 towards Ħamrun. The bus departs every 30 minutes and the journey takes approximately 6-7 minutes. Get off at the 'Gejtano, Il Hamrun' bus stop, which is close to the Round Tower. A single journey ticket costs €2.50 during the summer months (June 14 to October 18). Alternatively, a taxi from Valletta to Ħamrun takes around 6 minutes.
Walking
From the center of Ħamrun, the Round Tower is easily accessible on foot. Head towards San Gejtanu and look for the tower on the hill of St. Nicholas. It's approximately a 5-10 minute walk from most central locations in Ħamrun.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
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Combine your visit with a walk around the nearby streets to experience the local Maltese lifestyle.
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Look closely for the Wignacourt coat of arms and the Latin inscription on the tower’s facade.
Discover more about Round Tower
Nestled in the bustling town of Ħamrun, the Round Tower, also known as it-Turretta ta' Atocja or Il-Monument tat-Tromba, is a captivating reminder of Malta's rich heritage. Constructed in 1615 as part of the Wignacourt Aqueduct, this unique tower served as both a water inspection point and a defensive structure. Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt financed the aqueduct, which was essential for supplying fresh water to Valletta.The tower's round shape distinguishes it from other fortifications of the period. The structure was strategically built on St. Nicholas hill and was part of the aqueduct that the Knights built. Water flowed through an open tank inside the tower, where it was inspected for quality. The tower features the Wignacourt coat of arms and a Latin inscription that reads, "As there is life in water, life started from water".While the Round Tower is no longer in use and has suffered some dilapidation, it remains an iconic landmark in Ħamrun. Its presence, wedged between modern buildings, creates a striking contrast between the old and new. Visitors can admire the tower's architecture and reflect on its historical significance as a testament to Maltese engineering and resilience.
A brief summary to Round Tower
Use Round Tower as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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