Torre dello Standardo, Baroque tower in Mdina, Malta
Torre dello Standardo is a baroque tower marking Mdina's entrance with sturdy stone walls and decorative architectural details throughout its facade. A cylindrical tower body topped by a distinctive dome makes it easily recognizable from a distance.
Built between 1725 and 1726 during the rule of the Order of St. John, the tower replaced an earlier medieval structure that had occupied the same location. This reconstruction reflected the military architectural priorities of the period in fortifying the city's entrance.
The tower serves as an iconic symbol at Mdina's entrance and represents the city's connection to its layered past. It marks a threshold where visitors transition from modern surroundings into the fortified medieval town.
The structure sits directly at Mdina's main gateway and is easily accessible on foot from the surrounding area. Visitors should expect steep cobblestone streets and narrow passages once inside the historic center, so comfortable walking shoes are essential.
The tower appeared on Malta's Lm5 banknote from 1989 to 2007, demonstrating its status as a symbol of national importance. Its presence on currency highlighted how deeply rooted the structure is in Malta's sense of identity.
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