Dwejra Tower: Guardian of Gozo's Coast

Perched on the rugged coastline of Gozo, Malta, Dwejra Tower is a compelling reminder of the island's defensive history. Constructed in 1652 during the reign of Grand Master Giovanni Paolo Lascaris, the tower formed part of a network of coastal watchtowers designed to protect Gozo from invaders. Its strategic location allowed it to communicate with other fortifications via fire and smoke signals.Originally known as Qawra Tower, it also served to guard the 'Fungus Rock' (Il-Ġebla tal-Ġeneral), a small islet where a unique fungus with purported medicinal properties grew. Access to the rock was restricted, and the tower helped prevent unauthorized harvesting of this valuable resource.Throughout its history, Dwejra Tower has played various roles. It was manned by the Royal Malta Fencible Artillery during the British colonial era and served as an observation post during both World Wars. In 1943, personnel stationed at the tower even rescued a downed RAF pilot.After years of neglect, Din l-Art Ħelwa, a Maltese heritage NGO, restored the tower in the late 1990s. Today, it is open to the public and offers stunning views of the Dwejra Heritage Park, including the Inland Sea and the site of the former Azure Window. Informative displays inside detail the tower's history and the surrounding ecology.