Santa Marija Tower

Comino, a small but enchanting island located between Malta and Gozo, is home to some of the most stunning natural beauty in the Mediterranean. While its Blue Lagoon is undoubtedly the most famous attraction, the island also boasts fascinating historical sites that tell the story of Malta’s rich past. One such site is the Santa Marija Tower, an impressive structure that stands as a silent witness to centuries of conflict, strategic importance, and local legends.

A Tower with Historical Significance

Santa Marija Tower is a defensive structure that was built in the 17th century as part of the Knights of St. John’s effort to fortify Malta against Ottoman invasions. The Knights, who ruled the island after being granted control by the Spanish Crown, understood the importance of defense in this strategic location in the Mediterranean Sea. Positioned on Comino, the tower was strategically placed to protect the island from sea-based threats and served as a lookout post for ships approaching Malta from the open sea.

The tower was completed in 1618, during the reign of Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt, who was instrumental in fortifying Malta’s coastal defenses. Santa Marija Tower is part of a network of similar watchtowers built across the Maltese Islands under the leadership of the Knights. These towers were manned by soldiers, and the one on Comino was crucial in watching for enemy ships that could be sailing toward the island, as well as for sending signals to the larger fortifications on the mainland.

The tower itself is a robust, square-shaped structure made from local limestone, designed to withstand attacks and to allow its defenders to spot enemies from miles away. Despite its military origins, it is also a testament to the engineering skills of the time, with its thick walls, narrow windows, and a commanding view over the surrounding sea.

Architecture and Features of the Tower

The design of Santa Marija Tower is in line with many other towers constructed by the Knights of St. John. It has a distinctive cylindrical turret on the roof, which was likely used for defense as well as a platform from which to spot ships. The tower is relatively small, standing at about 12 meters tall, but its location on a hilltop gives it an elevated vantage point that makes it visible from far away.

One of the most interesting aspects of Santa Marija Tower is its construction material: local limestone. This stone is prevalent throughout the Maltese Islands, and it’s known for its durability and ability to blend with the natural landscape. Over the centuries, the tower has weathered many storms and remains remarkably well-preserved.

The tower has been restored several times over the years, but its overall appearance has remained faithful to its original design. The entrance is a small doorway that leads into the main interior, which would have been used as both living quarters and storage for the soldiers who manned the tower. Today, the tower stands as a prominent landmark on Comino, and visitors can explore it and learn about its historical significance.

Strategic Importance of Santa Marija Tower

Santa Marija Tower is strategically located to monitor the sea lanes around Comino, particularly the waters between Malta and Gozo. Its position made it an ideal location to keep watch for pirate ships, enemy fleets, and other potential threats that could approach from the sea. In the 17th century, pirates were a constant threat in the Mediterranean, and the tower was part of a larger system of defenses that helped keep the Maltese Islands safe.

Over time, the tower’s role evolved. It was used during the British era for military purposes and continued to be a vital part of Malta’s defense infrastructure. During World War II, the tower’s function changed again. It was used by the British to monitor German and Italian naval activities in the Mediterranean. In recent decades, it has become a historical landmark that draws visitors from all over the world.

A Symbol of Malta’s History and Culture

Santa Marija Tower is not only a symbol of Malta’s military history but also a reflection of the island’s culture and resilience. The tower has witnessed numerous historical events, including the rise and fall of empires, pirate invasions, and world wars. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Maltese people and their determination to protect their homeland.

Aside from its military significance, the tower also holds a special place in the local culture. It is said to be named after the Feast of Santa Marija, which is celebrated on Comino every August. The feast is a religious event that attracts locals and visitors alike, and the tower is often associated with the celebration. The surrounding area is also known for its natural beauty, with rugged landscapes and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for those looking to explore the history and beauty of the island.

Visiting Comino & Santa Marija Tower Today

Today, Santa Marija Tower is open to visitors and is one of the top historical landmarks in Comino. While the tower itself is not large, the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. From the tower, you can see across the entire island of Comino, as well as the surrounding waters of the Mediterranean. The view stretches all the way to the sister island of Gozo, and on clear days, you can even see the coast of mainland Malta.

If you’re visiting Comino for the day, a trip to Santa Marija Tower is highly recommended. You can take a boat ride from the nearby islands or hike to the tower, which is about a 15-minute walk from the Santa Marija Bay. Once at the tower, you can explore its history and take in the stunning views that have made this part of the island famous.

At Bluewaves Watersports, we offer private boat trips, various boat excursions around Comino, including stops at Santa Marija Tower, so you can explore this historic landmark and much more. Whether you’re interested in discovering Malta’s heritage, soaking up the sun, or enjoying the crystal-clear waters of Comino, we have the perfect experience waiting for you!

Santa Marija Tower: A Historical Gem in Comino