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Santa Marija Tower: Comino's Sentinel

Explore Comino's historic Santa Marija Tower: a 17th-century watchtower with stunning views and a rich history. A must-see Maltese landmark!

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The Santa Marija Tower, also known as Comino Tower, is a historic watchtower on the island of Comino, Malta. Built in 1618 by the Knights of St. John, it served as a crucial defensive structure and communication point between Gozo and Malta. Today, it stands as a beautifully restored landmark offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Malta's rich history.

A brief summary to Santa Marija Tower

Local tips

  • Check if the Maltese flag is raised atop the tower, as this indicates that it is open to visitors.
  • Wear sturdy shoes for the uneven terrain surrounding the tower.
  • Bring cash if you wish to leave a donation for the upkeep of the tower.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Blue Lagoon for a perfect day on Comino.
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Getting There

  • Ferry

    The primary way to reach Santa Marija Tower is by ferry to Comino Island. Ferries operate from Ċirkewwa and Marfa on Malta, and from Mġarr on Gozo. From Malta: Take a bus (e.g., line 41 from the airport) or taxi to Ċirkewwa. Several ferry companies offer regular services to Comino's Blue Lagoon. Ferry tickets cost approximately €10-€13 for a round trip. From Gozo: Ferries depart from Mġarr Harbour. Round-trip tickets are around €7-€10. Once on Comino: Most ferries arrive at the Blue Lagoon. From there, follow the signs for a scenic 15-20 minute walk to the Santa Marija Tower. Alternatively, some smaller ferries may drop you closer to the tower.

  • Walking

    Once you arrive at Comino's Blue Lagoon by ferry, the Santa Marija Tower is accessible via a relatively easy walk. From the Blue Lagoon: Follow the marked path that leads away from the main beach area. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes and offers beautiful views of the island. Be aware that the terrain can be uneven in places, so wear appropriate footwear. There are no specific costs associated with walking to the tower, as it's a public path.

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Discover more about Santa Marija Tower

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.

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