Santa Marija Tower

The majestic Saint Mary’s Tower (it-Torri ta’ Santa Marija) is a monumental watchtower crowning the rocky landscape of the island of Comino. Erected in 1618 by the Knights of the Order of St. John, it served as a key outpost in the defensive system that Malta once took pride in.

St. Mary's Tower. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Located at an altitude of 80 meters above sea level, this "little fortress" with six-meter-thick walls and remnants of a ditch is today one of the most recognizable landmarks of the archipelago. It is visible from almost any passing ferry, drawing attention with its rugged yet elegant Baroque architecture.

In addition to its historical value, the tower is famous for its incredible views. Its platforms offer a 360-degree panorama of the azure waters of the Blue Lagoon and the neighboring islands, making it a must-visit for photography enthusiasts and fans of ancient fortifications.

To check whether the tower's interior is open for visitors or to organize group tours, you can use the contact details of the managing organization. It is recommended to call in advance, as opening hours may depend on the season.

The main reason to climb up to Saint Mary’s Tower is the breathtaking panoramic views. From the top of the cliff, you get the best vantage point overlooking the Blue Lagoon and the channel between the islands, allowing you to appreciate the full beauty of the Mediterranean landscape. It is an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy peace and quiet away from the crowded beaches.

Inside the fortification, visitors can discover architectural details from the time of the Knights: see the powerful vaults, the remains of the ditch, and the small Chapel of Saint Joseph. A walk around the fortress allows you to see firsthand the thickness of the walls that protected the garrison from enemies for centuries. Stepping inside the tower is a great chance to touch the authentic history of the Maltese Knighthood.

For active travelers, a visit to the tower can be part of an exciting hiking route around the island. Nearby trails lead to secluded coves and rocky outcrops where you can have a small picnic overlooking the sea. The site becomes particularly picturesque during the sunset hours, when the limestone walls of the fortress are bathed in warm golden tones.

Since the island has no airport of its own, the only way to reach it is by water. Regular small ferries and speedboats depart from the port of Cirkewwa on Malta or from Mgarr Harbour on the island of Gozo. The journey takes about 20–30 minutes, and the massive silhouette of the tower atop the cliff will serve as an excellent landmark from afar.

After landing at the Comino (Għajnsielem) jetty, you will need to reach the attraction on foot. There is no public transport or taxis on the island, so prepare for a walk along rocky paths. The uphill walk takes about 15–20 minutes.

The paths to the tower are well-marked; however, due to the terrain, it is highly recommended to wear comfortable athletic shoes. During the summer season, be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as there is almost no shade on the way to the fortification.

Saint Mary’s Tower was built in 1618 on the initiative of Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt. It was the fifth in a famous series of defensive structures designed to protect the archipelago's coastline from pirate raids and the Turkish fleet. Thanks to its strategic location, the tower allowed communication between the fortifications of Mdina on Malta and the Citadel on Gozo using a system of smoke and fire signals.

This structure is considered Wignacourt's most expensive project—more than 18,628 scudi were spent on its construction. The main difficulty and high cost lay in logistics: all building materials, including heavy limestone blocks, had to be delivered by boat to the virtually uninhabited and rocky island. Funds for the construction were partially raised by selling brushwood and other resources from the island itself.

During the era of the Knights, the tower's garrison was often supplemented by those who had committed minor offenses and were sent to Comino as punishment. Interestingly, the site remained in military service until the beginning of the 21st century—it was only in 2002 that the Armed Forces of Malta handed the tower over to the "Din l-Art Helwa" foundation for restoration and preservation as a cultural heritage site.

You should set aside about 1–2 hours for a direct tour of the tower and a walk around the surrounding observation decks. This is enough time to hike up to the fortress at a leisurely pace, explore its massive walls, and take memorable photos of the panoramic straits.

If you plan to combine your visit to the tower with a trip to the Blue Lagoon or a walk along the island's entire coastline, it is better to allocate half a day or even a full day for the trip. Factor in the time for the ferry crossing and walking between locations.

Currently, Saint Mary’s Tower may be closed for unrestricted visits to its interior rooms. Since the site is managed by a non-profit foundation, access inside is often granted on specific days when volunteers are present or by prior arrangement.

To avoid disappointment, it is recommended to check the information on the official website of the organization "Din l-Art Helwa" in advance. Nevertheless, the exterior grounds and observation decks around the fortress are accessible to tourists 24/7, allowing you to admire the structure and the cliffside views at any time.

Exploring the surroundings of Saint Mary’s Tower allows tourists to see Comino from different perspectives—from rugged military fortifications to picturesque natural bays. The island is small enough to walk around most of its iconic spots in one day, enjoying the silence and the sea breeze.

Below are the sites located within walking distance or a short boat ride away that will help round out your trip: