75 pts4 min read🚶 on foot🟢 easy
Santa Marija Tower (1618) — the mighty watchtower of the Knights of Malta with 6-metre-thick walls. Comino's most important defensive structure, restored by Din l-Art Helwa volunteers.
Guardian of the Channel
In 1618, Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt ordered a tower built on the summit of Comino. The purpose was clear: control the channel between Malta and Gozo — a strategic point through which an Ottoman fleet could arrive. Santa Marija Tower was the eyes and ears of the entire archipelago.
An Impregnable Fortress
The tower walls are 6 metres thick — that's longer than a car. The entrance was on the first floor, accessible only by ladder, which could be pulled inside. An artillery platform with several cannons was installed on the roof. A small garrison (8-12 soldiers) could hold the tower for weeks.
The tower was part of a signal network — a system of fires and smoke allowed transmitting a warning from Gozo to Valletta in 15 minutes. Each tower could see two neighbours, creating a defensive chain around the entire archipelago.
Restoration by Volunteers
After centuries of neglect, the tower fell into ruin. In 2002, the Maltese heritage organisation Din l-Art Helwa (Heritage Guardian) undertook restoration. Volunteers — often students and retirees — spent years rebuilding walls, installing stairs, and creating a small historical exhibit. Today the tower is open to visitors (free entry) and offers panoramic views of all Comino.
Polish Connection
The Knights of Malta's watchtower system inspired fortifications across Europe — including 17th-century Polish strongholds. Polish nobles belonging to the Order swore oaths to defend exactly such watchtowers.
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Open Wed/Fri/Sat/Sun 10:30am–3pm (April–October). Managed by Din l-Art Ħelwa.
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