Ħamrija Tower, Coastal watchtower in Qrendi, Malta
Ħamrija Tower is a coastal watchtower made of limestone in Qrendi with a square base, two floors, and small windows for lookout. The entrance sits on the upper level and was once reached only by a ladder that could be pulled up.
Built in 1659 as part of the De Redin tower network, this structure served as a defensive post against Turkish raids on Malta's southwestern coast. It played a key role in coastal defense during that era.
The tower is part of Malta's defensive building heritage and shows how the Knights of St John protected the coast during the 17th century. Visitors can see today how this single lookout fit into the island's defense strategy.
The tower stands near the Neolithic temples of Mnajdra and Hagar Qim, allowing visitors to combine it with these nearby sites. Sturdy footwear is recommended because the path to reach the tower crosses uneven terrain.
This tower was the southwestern end of the defense line and operated in complete isolation from other structures in the network. This made it both strategically unique and vulnerable as an outpost at the island's edge.
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