Xlendi Tower, 17th century coastal watchtower in Munxar, Malta
Description
Xlendi Tower is a rectangular stone structure sitting on a coastal cliff with an external staircase that reaches the entrance on the second floor. The building is fairly compact and displays the typical squared shape of watchtowers from this era.
History
The tower was built in 1650 under Grand Master Lascaris to guard the bay against pirates and unauthorized vessels. It lost its defensive purpose in 1873 when maritime threats changed.
Culture
The tower reveals how people defended their coastline and stands today as a symbol of Malta's maritime past. Visitors can still see the sturdy construction methods that were designed to keep attackers away.
Practical
The tower now houses a visitor center with displays about coastal defense systems and maritime fortifications. Visitors should be prepared for the external stairs and wear sturdy footwear, as the ground can be uneven.
Did you know?
On the seaward side, the tower features an unusual sloped platform extending from its base. This detail shows how builders protected the structure from waves and attacks coming from the sea.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Munxar).
St. George's Basilica
3 km
Cathedral of the Assumption of the Madonna
3.1 km
Ras il-Wardija
2.6 km
Dwejra Tower
3.1 km
Gozo Aqueduct
2.7 km
Gozo Museum of Archaeology
3.1 km
Church of St Augustine, Victoria Gozo
2.7 km
Banca Giuratale
3 km
Church of the Nativity of Our Lady
3 km
Church of St James, Victoria Gozo
3 km
Church of St Margaret, Sannat
2.7 km
Our Lady of Pompei Church, Victoria, Gozo
2.8 km
St Lucy's Church, Gozo
1.7 km
Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Fontana
2.4 km
Church of St Francis, Victoria Gozo
3 km
Gozo Nature Museum
3.1 km
Annunciation Chapel, Victoria
2.3 km
Sanap Cliffs
1.3 km
St Paul's Church, Munxar
2 km
Torri tax-Xlendi
17 m
L-Għadira ta' San Raflu
1.6 km
L-Għajn il-Kbira
2.3 km
Chapel of Our Lady of Manresa, Victoria, Gozo
2.4 km
Gozo 360°
3 km
Churches in Munxar
752 m
Manresa Retreat House
2.5 km
Fungus Rock
3.1 km
Niche Assumption of the Madonna
2.9 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes