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Għajn Tuffieħa Tower: A Sentinel of the Maltese Coast

Explore the historic Għajn Tuffieħa Tower, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Malta's defensive past.

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Għajn Tuffieħa Tower, a historic watchtower on Malta's northwest coast, offers panoramic views of Għajn Tuffieħa Bay and the surrounding landscape. Built in the 17th century by the Knights of Malta, it served as a vital part of the island's coastal defense system.

A brief summary to Għajn Tuffieħa Tower

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the tower can be uneven.
  • Bring water, especially during the hot summer months.
  • Visit during sunset for the most spectacular views.
  • Combine your visit with a swim at Għajn Tuffieħa Bay.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Valletta, take bus route 44, 223, or 225 towards Għajn Tuffieħa. The closest bus stop is 'Riviera', approximately a 7-minute walk from the tower. A single bus ticket costs around €2. From the bus stop, follow the signs leading towards Għajn Tuffieħa Bay; the tower is visible from the path.

  • Walking

    If you are already at Għajn Tuffieħa Bay, the tower is a short walk up the promontory. Follow the path leading from the beach towards the headland. The walk is moderately steep and takes approximately 10-15 minutes. There are no entrance fees or special transport tickets required.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Valletta to Għajn Tuffieħa Tower takes approximately 23 minutes and costs around €20-€30. Several taxi services operate in Malta, including eCabs and Bolt. There are no unavoidable tolls on the route. Taxis can drop you off near the entrance to Għajn Tuffieħa Bay, from where it is a short walk to the tower.

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Discover more about Għajn Tuffieħa Tower

Għajn Tuffieħa Tower stands as a proud reminder of Malta's strategic importance throughout history. Constructed in 1637 during the reign of Grand Master Giovanni Paolo Lascaris, this coastal watchtower formed part of a network designed to protect the island from corsair raids and invasions. Its location atop a promontory provides commanding views of Għajn Tuffieħa Bay, Gnejna Bay, and the open sea. The tower's architecture is typical of the Lascaris towers, featuring a square plan with thick walls and a slightly battered base. Originally, it would have been manned by a small garrison of soldiers who were responsible for spotting approaching vessels and signaling warnings to nearby settlements. The tower was equipped with cannons and other weaponry to deter potential attackers. Today, Għajn Tuffieħa Tower is a popular destination for hikers and history enthusiasts. The views from the top are simply breathtaking, especially at sunset. While access to the interior may be restricted, the exterior of the tower is well-preserved, allowing visitors to appreciate its historical significance and imagine what life was like for the soldiers who once stood guard here.

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