Aħrax Tower, Malta (MT)

FORTE CULTURA Stop: Aħrax Tower, Malta (MT)

Malta’s northernmost watchtower and one of the best-preserved coastal fortifications of the Knights!

The Aħrax Tower (in Maltese, „Torri tal-Aħrax“), built in 1658 by the Order of St John under Grand Master Martin de Redin, was originally called „Torre di Lacras“ and is also known as the „White Tower“. It is the sixth of the thirteen De Redin towers, which were erected to defend Malta against attacks by the Ottomans and the barbarian corsairs. The tower stands on the Marfa Ridge above Armier Bay in the village of Mellieħa and was built in a strategically favourable position overlooking the Comino Channel, enabling soldiers to monitor approaching ships and communicate with neighbouring towers via a network of smokeand fire signals.

In 1715, the tower was reinforced by a surrounding artillery battery. During British rule in the 19th century, it served as a naval station and, at times, even as the governor’s summer residence. The tower has been carefully restored and remains one of the best-preserved examples of Malta’s 17th-century coastal fortifications.

Architecturally, the Aħrax Tower follows the typical design of the De Redin towers. It was built from local limestone and features a square floor plan with thick defensive walls, corner turrets, a raised entrance and a roof that served as the main observation and combat platform. The tower has remained largely intact and was reopened to the public in June 2021 following three years of restoration work.

Today, visitors can explore the restored tower and the remains of the artillery battery whilst enjoying panoramic views of Armier Bay and the islands of Comino and Gozo. The site is also part of several walking routes across the Marfa Peninsula.

The tower is situated on the Marfa Ridge in Mellieħa, Malta.