OKAY, HERE’S THE STORY

Set the scene.

Xlendi Tower was built in 1650 during Grand Master Lascaris’s rule. It is Gozo’s oldest surviving freestanding coastal watchtower.

Here’s the twist.

Its guards watched for pirates, smugglers and people trying to evade quarantine. Coastal defence also involved controlling who and what landed.

Why it still matters.

A commander and gunner formed the core team, with extra guards at night. Picture keeping watch here in darkness: a familiar holiday bay becomes a very different workplace.

🧠 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.