The Red Tower, Dingli Cliffs Travel Guide

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Explore St. Agatha's Tower, the Red Tower: a historic Maltese watchtower with panoramic views of Mellieha Bay, Comino, and Gozo. A landmark of coastal defense.

St. Agatha's Tower, also known as the Red Tower, is a large bastioned watchtower in Mellieħa, Malta, constructed between 1647 and 1649. Overlooking Mellieha Bay, Comino, and Gozo, it was a crucial communication and defense point, recognizable by its distinctive red color.

A brief summary to The Red Tower

Triq Tad-Dahar, Mellieħa, MT
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Monday 10 am-4 pm
Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Red Tower.

Bring cash for the entrance fee, as card payments are not accepted.
Check the bus timetable in advance, as they vary between summer and winter.
Wear comfortable shoes for the uphill walk from the bus stop or parking area.
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Mellieha Bay or Popeye Village for a full day of activities.
Take a walk around the outside to appreciate its grandeur during sunrise or sunset.

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Explore The Red Tower on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near The Red Tower, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Mellieha Bay, take bus routes 41, 42 from Valletta, or 221, 222 from Sliema/St Julian's to the 'Qammieh' bus stop. From there, it's a steep, 7-minute uphill walk to the Red Tower. A single bus journey costs around €1.50.
Car

From Mellieha Bay, head north on Triq Il-Mellieħa towards Triq Tad-Dahar. Continue on Triq Tad-Dahar for about 1.5 km until you see the Red Tower on your left. Limited free parking is available near the tower. Be aware that parking might be full during peak tourist season.
Taxi

Taxis can drop you off near the tower. Use ride-hailing apps like Bolt to book a taxi. A short trip from Mellieha Bay will cost approximately €10-€15.
Walking

If you are in Mellieha, walking to the Red Tower is an option. Head towards the coast on Triq Il-Mellieħa, then turn onto Triq Tad-Dahar. The Red Tower will be approximately a 30-minute walk from the beach area. This includes a steep walk at the end.

Discover more about The Red Tower

St. Agatha's Tower, commonly known as the Red Tower, is a prominent historical landmark in Mellieħa, Malta. Constructed between 1647 and 1649 during the reign of Grand Master Jean Paul Lascaris Castellar, it served as a vital part of the island's coastal defense system. The tower was designed by the architect Antonio Garsin.Strategically positioned on the crest of the Marfa Ridge, the Red Tower offers commanding views of Għadira Bay (Mellieħa Bay), Comino, and Gozo, enabling effective communication between Valletta and Gozo. Its red color, applied by the Knights of St. John, made it easily identifiable from other towers like the White Tower and the Santa Maria Tower on Comino.The tower's design features a square structure with four corner turrets, thick walls (approximately four meters at the base), and cannon ports for interlocking fields of fire. Originally, the entrance was defended by a drawbridge. Inside, a chapel dedicated to Saint Agatha, a Christian martyr, reflects the religious influences of the time. The tower could house a garrison of 30 men and sustain a 40-day siege.Throughout its history, the Red Tower played a significant military role, including during the British period and both World Wars. In the late 20th century, Din l-Art Ħelwa restored the tower. Today, St. Agatha's Tower is open to the public, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Malta's past.