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Dwejra Tower: A Sentinel of Gozo's Coast

Explore Gozo's Dwejra Tower: a historic watchtower with panoramic views, guarding the island's heritage and natural beauty. Free entry!

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Perched on the rugged western coast of Gozo, Malta, Dwejra Tower is a 17th-century watchtower offering panoramic views of the island's dramatic landscape. Built in 1652, it served as a defensive structure against corsair raids and later protected access to Fungus Rock, known for its medicinal plant. Today, the restored tower is a popular destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and sunset seekers.

A brief summary to Dwejra Tower

  • St Lawrence, MT

Local tips

  • Check for the flag flying atop the tower; it indicates that the tower is open to visitors.
  • Combine your visit with a boat trip through the Inland Sea or a walk around Fungus Rock for a full Dwejra experience.
  • Visit during sunset for stunning golden-hued views of the coastline.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the path to the tower can be rocky.
  • Pack water and sunscreen, especially during the summer months.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Victoria (Rabat), Gozo's capital, take bus 311 to the 'Dwejra' bus stop. The bus ride is approximately 25 minutes. From the bus stop, it's a short, 2-minute walk to the tower. A single bus ticket costs around €2.

  • Car

    From Victoria, follow the signs to San Lawrenz and then to Dwejra. The drive is about 15-20 minutes. There is a free parking area near Dwejra Bay. From the parking lot, the tower is a short walk up a rocky trail. Parking can fill up quickly in the summer.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Mgarr Harbour (where the Gozo ferry arrives) or from Victoria. A taxi ride from Mgarr Harbour to Dwejra will cost approximately €25-€35 and take around 30 minutes. Always confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Dwejra Tower

Dwejra Tower, also known as Qawra Tower, stands as a testament to Gozo's rich history and strategic importance. Constructed in 1652 during the reign of Grand Master Giovanni Paolo Lascaris, it was part of a network of coastal watchtowers designed to protect the island from Ottoman pirates and other invaders. The tower's location within Dwejra Heritage Park places it amidst a landscape of natural wonders, including the Inland Sea, Fungus Rock, and the former Azure Window. Historically, the tower played a crucial role in guarding the coastline and preventing unauthorized access to Fungus Rock, where a unique plant, *Cynomorium coccineum*, known as the Maltese Fungus, was harvested for its supposed medicinal properties. The Knights of Malta highly valued this plant, and the tower ensured its protection. Throughout the centuries, Dwejra Tower has undergone periods of use and abandonment. It was manned by the Royal Malta Fencible Artillery during the British colonial era and served as an observation post during both World Wars. After falling into disrepair, the tower was meticulously restored in 1997 by Din l-Art Ħelwa, a Maltese heritage NGO, and reopened to the public. Today, visitors can explore the tower's interior, discover its history through informative displays, and ascend to the rooftop for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. The tower also plays a role in protecting the local marine ecosystem, reinforcing the importance of preserving both cultural and natural heritage.

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