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Għajn Ħadid Tower: A Ruined Sentinel of the Maltese Coast

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Explore the ruins of Għajn Ħadid Tower in Mellieħa, Malta, a 17th-century watchtower offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's history.

Għajn Ħadid Tower, a ruined 17th-century watchtower in Mellieħa, Malta, offers a glimpse into the island's strategic past. Built by the Knights of St. John, it served as a vital link in the coastal defense system. Though damaged by an earthquake in 1856, its remains offer panoramic views and a connection to Malta's history.

A brief summary to Għajn Ħadid Tower

  • X99M+4X9, Mellieħa, MT
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

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

  • Visit during sunset for breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the uneven terrain around the tower.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and historic architecture.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the main road in Mellieħa, follow the signs towards l-Aħrax. The tower is located off the beaten path, requiring a walk through the countryside. The path can be rocky and uneven, so wear appropriate footwear. The walk to the tower offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. No costs are associated with walking to the tower.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus routes 41, 42, 49, 101, 221, 222, or 250 to Mellieha. From the bus stop in Mellieha, it's approximately a 20-30 minute walk to the tower. Follow the road towards l-Aħrax and then continue on foot along the path leading to the tower. A single bus fare costs €2.50 during the summer.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Mellieħa. A taxi ride from the Mellieha city center to the vicinity of Għajn Ħadid Tower will cost approximately €15-€20. From where the taxi drops you off, there will be a short walk to the tower. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Għajn Ħadid Tower

Għajn Ħadid Tower, originally known as Torre di Salomone and locally as Xagħra Tower, stands as a ruined testament to Malta's maritime history. Constructed in 1658 by the Order of St. John, it was the first of the De Redin towers, built to guard the coast. Its location on the cliffs of Mellieħa provided strategic views of Mġiebaħ Bay, Comino, Gozo, St. Paul's Bay, and Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq.The tower's design, based on the Sciuta Tower, featured a square plan with two floors and a rooftop turret. The entrance, located on the first floor, was accessible only by a retractable ladder. A nearby defensible room with musketry loopholes and a well dug into the rock provided further protection and self-sufficiency for the militia stationed there.An earthquake in 1856 caused the upper floor to collapse, leaving the tower in ruins. Today, only part of the scarped base remains. Despite its ruined state, Għajn Ħadid Tower offers valuable insights into the construction of the De Redin towers. The commemorative plaque and the tower's cannon are now displayed in Tas-Salib Square, Mellieħa. Visitors can explore the ruins, enjoy the panoramic views, and imagine the tower's role in Malta's defense.
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