Santa Marija Tower: Comino's Sentinel

Perched on the rugged cliffs of Comino, the Santa Marija Tower is a testament to Malta's strategic importance and enduring spirit. Constructed in 1618 during the reign of Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt, the tower was part of a network of coastal watchtowers designed to protect the Maltese Islands from pirates and invading forces.The tower's design is a robust, square structure made from local limestone, standing approximately 12 meters tall on an 8-meter-high plinth. Its elevated position, about 80 meters above sea level, provided a commanding view of the surrounding sea lanes between Malta and Gozo. The thick walls, reaching six meters in width, and the four corner turrets, made it a formidable defensive structure.Throughout its history, the Santa Marija Tower has played various roles. During the British period, it served to protect the anchorage and maintain communications between Gozo and Malta. It also functioned as an isolation hospital and even a stable for animals. In the 2002 film 'The Count of Monte Cristo,' the tower was featured as the infamous prison of Château d'If.Today, the Santa Marija Tower has been lovingly restored by Din l-Art Ħelwa, a non-profit organization, and is open to visitors. Exploring the tower offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and connect with Malta's maritime past. The views from the top are breathtaking, stretching across Comino, the Blue Lagoon, and the sister island of Gozo.