Set the scene.
St Agatha’s Tower, better known as the Red Tower, stands on Marfa Ridge near Mellieħa. Its prominent position helped it watch Mellieħa Bay and the channels towards Comino and Gozo.
Here’s the twist.
The tower was built during Grand Master Lascaris’s rule in the late 1640s. Its strong limestone structure, roof parapet and corner turrets were parts of a defensive building, rather than decorative castle styling.
Why it still matters.
Din l-Art Ħelwa’s restoration account shows that caring for a landmark is a continuing job. Weathering and the loss of plaster can threaten the surfaces that make a building recognisable. Preservation takes repeated attention.
🧠 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.