The Red Tower, Gozo And Comino Travel Guide

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

The Red Tower, officially known as St. Agatha's Tower, is a prominent 17th-century watchtower in Mellieħa, Malta, offering panoramic views of Għadira Bay, Comino, and Gozo. Built by the Order of Saint John, it served as a crucial communication and defense point against invaders. Its distinctive red color and robust structure make it a striking landmark and a testament to Malta's strategic importance.

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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Red Tower.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the approach to the tower involves a steep uphill walk.
Bring cash, as card payments are not accepted for the entrance fee.
Check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary seasonally.
Visit during sunset for unforgettable views and photo opportunities.

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Explore The Red Tower on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near The Red Tower, mapped for you.

Getting There

Bus

From Valletta or other major towns, take bus routes 41, 42, 221, or 222 towards Ċirkewwa. Alight at the 'Qammieħ' bus stop, located near the base of the hill leading to the Red Tower. From the bus stop, it's a steep, approximately 10-minute uphill walk to the tower's entrance. A single bus ticket costs around €2 [n/a].
Car

Drive towards Mellieħa and follow signs for the Red Tower or St. Agatha's Tower. The tower is located on Marfa Ridge. Limited free parking is available near the tower. Be aware that the road leading to the tower is narrow and steep in some places.
Taxi

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt are readily available throughout Malta. Request a ride to the Red Tower or St. Agatha's Tower in Mellieħa. A taxi ride from Mellieħa town center to the Red Tower typically costs between €10-€15 [n/a]. Ensure the driver is aware of the location and the best route to access the site.

Discover more about The Red Tower

St. Agatha's Tower, more commonly known as the Red Tower, stands proudly on the Marfa Ridge in Mellieħa, offering commanding views of the northern coast of Malta. Constructed between 1647 and 1649 during the reign of Grand Master Jean Paul Lascaris de Castellar, it was the sixth and largest of the Lascaris towers. The tower formed a vital part of Malta's coastal defense system, providing a strategic vantage point to monitor the seas and communicate with other fortifications on the islands of Comino and Gozo.The Red Tower's design, attributed to architect Antonio Garsin, features a square structure with four corner turrets, a departure from the design of other Lascaris towers, bearing greater similarity to the earlier Wignacourt towers. Its thick walls, approximately four meters at the base, and elevated position made it a formidable defensive structure. Cannon ports in the turrets allowed for interlocking fields of fire, protecting the base of the walls and the main entrance. The tower also housed a chapel dedicated to Saint Agatha, a Christian martyr revered as a protector against invasion and plague.Over the centuries, the Red Tower has played various roles. It served as a signal station during World War I and a telecommunications station during World War II. In 1998, Din l-Art Ħelwa, a non-governmental organization, was granted management of the Red Tower and undertook extensive restoration work to revive the dilapidated structure. Today, the Red Tower is open to the public, offering visitors a glimpse into Malta's rich history and stunning panoramic views. From the rooftop, one can see Għadira Bay, the islands of Comino and Gozo, and the surrounding countryside.The Red Tower is more than just a historical landmark; it's a symbol of resilience and strategic importance. Its imposing presence and the breathtaking views it offers make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Malta.