OKAY, HERE’S THE STORY

Set the scene.

Mġarr ix-Xini Tower was operating by June 1661. Engineer Mederico Blondel supplied the plan, while the local Universitas funded its construction.

Here’s the twist.

The Order supplied artillery and gunpowder. A castellan and professional gunner staffed the tower, which could communicate with Comino Tower.

Why it still matters.

Two floors, a vaulted room and a spiral stair made a compact defensive workplace. Restoration completed in 2009 helped secure its survival after serious deterioration.

🧠 One to think about +

What does this story change about the way you see Malta today? Pick one detail you’d tell a friend — then check its source below.