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The Round Tower: A Historic Sentinel in Ħamrun

Discover the Round Tower in Ħamrun: A historic 17th-century water inspection tower, showcasing Malta's rich cultural and architectural heritage.

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The Round Tower, or it-Turretta ta' Atocja, is a 17th-century water inspection tower built by the Knights of St. John in Ħamrun, Malta. Once part of the Wignacourt Aqueduct, it now stands as a historical landmark amidst the urban landscape, bearing witness to Malta's rich past.

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A brief summary to Round Tower

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

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VFPP+F7P, San Gejtanu, Hamrun, MT

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    Getting There

    Walking

    From the Ħamrun town center, walk northeast on Triq il-Kbira towards the intersection with Triq San Gejtanu. Turn left onto Triq San Gejtanu, and you will find the Round Tower located at VFPP+F7P, San Gejtanu, Il-Ħamrun, within a 10-15 minute walk. The walk is relatively easy and allows you to explore the local streets.

    Public Transport

    From Valletta, take bus route 51, 52, or 53 towards Ħamrun. Get off at the 'San Gejtanu' bus stop. From there, it is a short, approximately 5-minute walk to the Round Tower, located at VFPP+F7P, San Gejtanu, Il-Ħamrun. A single journey bus ticket costs €2.50 during the summer (June 14 to October 18) and is valid for 2 hours, allowing for transfers. Contactless payment is accepted on the bus.

    Driving

    From Valletta, head southeast on Vjal ir-Rihan. Continue straight until you reach the roundabout and take the second exit onto Triq il-Kbira. Follow it until the next roundabout and take the first exit onto Triq San Gejtanu. Continue driving straight, and you will find Round Tower at VFPP+F7P, San Gejtanu, Il-Ħamrun. Street parking is available nearby, but it can be busy. Parking fees vary, with some MCP car parks charging €1 for up to 1 hour, €1.50 for 1-4 hours, and €2.50 for 4-24 hours.

    Local tips

    Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs and to avoid potential crowds.
    Combine your visit with a stroll around the nearby streets of Ħamrun to experience the local Maltese lifestyle.
    Look closely for the Wignacourt coat of arms and the Latin inscription on the tower.

    Discover more about Round Tower

    Nestled between modern buildings in the bustling town of Ħamrun, the Round Tower is a unique reminder of Malta's history. Constructed in 1615 as part of the Wignacourt Aqueduct, it served as a water inspection site, ensuring the purity of the water flowing into Valletta. Locally known as Il-Monument tat-Tromba, the tower features a round structure adorned with the Wignacourt coat of arms and a Latin inscription that translates to "As there is life in water, life started from water".Built on the hill of St. Nicholas, the Round Tower provided panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, allowing inspectors to monitor the aqueduct. The tower's architecture blends Baroque and military styles, showcasing the craftsmanship of the period. Today, although no longer in use and in a dilapidated state, the Round Tower remains a significant landmark, offering a glimpse into Malta's strategic and cultural heritage.Visitors can appreciate the tower's historical significance and capture stunning photographs of this unique structure wedged between contemporary buildings. The surrounding area of Ħamrun offers a vibrant atmosphere with local shops and cafes, providing a taste of Maltese life.

    A brief summary to Round Tower

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