Historic Għajn Tuffieħa Tower Restored To Its Former Glory After Extensive Conservation Works
The Restoration and Preservation Department has finalised the project, breathing new life into the tower, which was originally built in 1637. The tower was one of a series of coastal watchtowers constructed during the reign of Grand Master Lascaris to strengthen Malta’s coastal defences against corsair invasions.
“The safeguarding of our historic heritage remains a priority for this Government. Għajn Tuffieħa Tower is not only a testament to our island’s defensive history but also a symbol of our coastal identity. Thanks to the interventions carried out by the Restoration and Preservation Department, we are ensuring that this tower will stand proudly for future generations, in a safe and dignified condition. This project reflects our continued commitment to protecting and revitalising sites that embody Malta’s collective memory,” The Minister for Culture, Lands and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, stated.
The Minister also expressed his gratitude to the employees of the Lands Authority for their full cooperation throughout the project and in the preceding months.
The Għajn Tuffieħa Tower suffered extensive damage in 2023 following continuous rainfall and strong winds brought about by Cyclone Helios. The severe weather caused significant structural damage, leading to the collapse of the central upper section of the façade facing southwest. The Lands Authority took immediate action by erecting scaffolding around the tower to provide support and prevent further collapse.
Following the approval of the necessary permits from the Planning Authority, in May 2025 the Restoration and Preservation Department began essential repair works to address the structural damage. The project’s scope was later extended to include additional interventions deemed necessary to prevent further deterioration of the structure.
Today, these interventions have been successfully completed. The project included the reconstruction of the collapsed section, the removal or replacement of corroded iron elements that were damaging the surrounding stone, the installation of water drainage features to divert rainwater away from the structure, and the repointing of open joints.