Tal-Wejter Tower, Medieval defensive tower in Birkirkara, Malta.
Tal-Wejter Tower is a limestone structure in Birkirkara comprising two floors separated by a moulded string course and featuring square rooms on each level. A high parapet wall crowns the building, giving it a solid defensive appearance characteristic of fortifications from this period.
Built in 1710 during the Order of Saint John period, this tower served as a strategic communication point linking San Gwann, St Julians, and Birkirkara. After partial demolition in 1968, reconstruction work restored its original architectural character.
The tower carries a local name 'it-Torri tal-Misħun,' derived from its crenellations which in Maltese mean 'Boiling Water Tower.' This name reflects a defensive identity that visitors can still perceive in the distinctive design of the upper fortifications.
The structure stands on Triq Filippo Borgia and holds Grade 2 national monument status, which means visiting conditions follow heritage protection guidelines. It sits within a residential area, so finding parking nearby requires some patience and planning.
Following near-total demolition in 1968, the tower was painstakingly reconstructed by Società Dun Filippu Borgia to match its original design. This restoration was so careful that visitors today cannot easily distinguish which sections are original and which date from the rebuilding effort.
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