Santa Marija Tower: Comino's Sentinel
Explore Comino's historic Santa Marija Tower: a 17th-century fortress with panoramic views and a rich, storied past.
Perched on the picturesque island of Comino, the Santa Marija Tower stands as a robust testament to Malta's strategic importance throughout history. Constructed in 1618 by Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt of the Knights of St. John, the tower was part of a network of fortifications designed to protect the Maltese Islands from pirates and invaders. Its location, roughly 80 meters above sea level, provided a strategic vantage point for spotting approaching ships and relaying signals between the Citadella in Gozo and Mdina in Malta. The tower's architecture is a formidable square structure with four corner turrets, boasting walls approximately six meters thick. This sturdy design allowed it to withstand attacks and served as a deterrent to potential enemies. During the British period, the tower played a vital role in protecting the anchorage and maintaining communications between Gozo and Malta. It even served as an isolation hospital and stable. In recent times, the Santa Marija Tower has been lovingly restored by Din l-Art Ħelwa and is open to the public. Visitors can explore its historic interior and ascend to the top for breathtaking views of Comino, the Blue Lagoon, and the surrounding Mediterranean Sea. The tower also gained fame for its appearance in the film 'The Count of Monte Cristo'. A visit offers a unique opportunity to connect with Malta's enduring spirit and maritime past.
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain around the tower is uneven.
- Bring water and sun protection, especially during the summer months.
- Check if the Maltese flag is raised atop the tower, indicating that it is open to visitors.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the Blue Lagoon for a memorable day on Comino.
A brief summary to Santa Marija Tower
- Ghajnsielem, MT
- +35679396524
Getting There
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Ferry
The primary way to reach Santa Marija Tower is by ferry to Comino Island. Ferries operate from Ċirkewwa in Malta and Mġarr Harbour in Gozo. From Ċirkewwa, two companies, Comino Ferries Co-Op and Ebsons Comino Ferries, offer round-trip tickets to Comino. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes. Once on Comino, a 30-minute walk from the Blue Lagoon will bring you to the tower. Costs: * Round-trip ferry from Ċirkewwa: €13-€15 * Round-trip ferry from Gozo: approximately €7
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Walking
From Santa Marija Bay, walk inland, following the path towards the centre of Comino Island. The tower is visible from the bay and is approximately a 15-minute walk. The route involves some uphill walking on uneven ground, so wear appropriate footwear. No costs are involved.
