St. Agatha's Tower (The Red Tower): A Sentinel of Malta

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Explore the Red Tower in Mellieħa: a historic watchtower with stunning views of Malta's coastline and islands.

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The Red Tower

Perched on the Marfa Ridge in Mellieħa, the Red Tower, or St. Agatha's Tower, is a 17th-century watchtower with panoramic views of Għadira Bay, Comino, and Gozo. Built by the Knights of St. John, it served as a vital link in Malta's coastal defense system, signaling threats between the islands and Valletta.

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

Local tips

Bring cash for the €2.50 entry fee, as card payments are not accepted.
Check the opening hours, as they vary between summer (10:00-17:00) and winter (10:00-16:00).
Wear comfortable shoes for the steep walk up to the tower.
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Mellieha Bay or Popeye Village.

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Getting There

Bus

Take bus routes 41, 42, 101, 221, or 222 to the Qammieħ bus stop. From there, it's a steep, approximately 10-minute uphill walk to the Red Tower. A single bus ticket costs around €2.
Car

Drive towards Mellieħa and follow signs for the Red Tower. There is limited free parking available near the tower. Be aware that the road leading to the tower is narrow and can be congested.
Taxi

Take a taxi from Mellieħa or a nearby location. A short taxi ride to the Red Tower will cost approximately €15-€20. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about The Red Tower

St. Agatha's Tower, commonly known as the Red Tower, is a commanding bastioned watchtower in Mellieħa, Malta. Constructed between 1647 and 1649 during the reign of Grand Master Jean Paul Lascaris de Castellar, it formed a crucial part of Malta's coastal defense network. The tower's location on the Marfa Ridge provided strategic oversight of Mellieħa Bay and the approaches to the island, allowing it to communicate with other towers as far as Gozo and Valletta.The tower's design, attributed to the French military engineer Antonio Garsin, is unique compared to other Lascaris towers, featuring a square plan with four corner turrets. Its thick walls, originally accessed via a drawbridge, were built to withstand artillery fire. Inside, vaulted rooms provided shelter for the garrison and storage for supplies. The name 'St. Agatha's Tower' comes from a chapel dedicated to Saint Agatha, a Christian martyr, symbolizing strength against invasion. The tower's red color, which led to its popular name, 'Red Tower,' made it easily recognizable to other towers in the communication chain.Throughout its history, the Red Tower has played various roles, including serving as a telecommunications station during World War II. Neglected for a time, it was restored between 1999 and 2001 by Din l-Art Ħelwa. Today, the Red Tower is open to the public, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Malta's military past.