Triq il-Wiesgħa Tower, Coastal watchtower in Żabbar, Malta
Triq il-Wiesgħa Tower is a coastal watchtower in Żabbar with a square footprint and two stories topped by a turret on the roof. The structure follows the standard architectural pattern typical of De Redin towers built during that period.
Built in 1659 as the ninth structure in a series of 13 defensive towers commissioned by Grand Master Martin de Redin of the Knights Hospitaller. These fortifications were part of a broader coastal defense strategy for Malta during the 17th century.
The tower takes its name from the Maltese 'Triq il-Wiesgħa', meaning Wide Street, which reflects its location along an extensive coastal stretch. Visitors can observe how the structure remains a landmark in the local geography and naming conventions.
After comprehensive restoration work by Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna in 2009, the monument maintains good structural condition but remains closed to the public. You can view the tower from the surrounding area but cannot enter the building itself.
The tower narrowly escaped demolition during the construction of Fort Leonardo in the 1870s because of its strategic position outside the fort's firing lines. This stroke of fortune allowed the structure to survive to the present day.
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