One of the 17th-century knight's watchtowers — part of the defense system against Barbary pirates. prowadzący tells of the chain of towers along Malta's entire coast.
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Malta's western coast was the island's weakest defensive point. The sandy beaches of Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa were ideal landing spots, which is why the Knights placed several towers close together here to ensure continuous observation. The watchtower above Tuffieħa was one link in this chain — part of the 17th-century early warning system that protected Malta's western flank.
Each tower had an assigned signalling procedure. By day, wet wood or straw was burned to produce smoke visible from a distance. By night, dry wood was lit for a bright flame. One fire meant a few suspicious sails, two fires meant a larger flotilla, three meant a full invasion. The tower above Tuffieħa relayed the signal to the tower at Dingli Cliffs, which passed it on to Mdina. The entire chain from coast to capital operated within a matter of minutes.
The tower stands on the cliff between Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa — western Malta's two most popular beaches. Today nobody searches for Ottoman sails, but the view from the tower across the sea and coastline remains one of the most beautiful on the island.
Practical tip: The tower is visible from the cliff trail linking Golden Bay with Għajn Tuffieħa. Free external access.
Right by Golden Bay. The tower is visible from the cliff above the beach.
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One of Malta's most beautiful sandy beaches — golden sand, clean water, lifeguards in season. Popular with tourists and locals alike.
Tower from 1637 above Golden Bay — one of ten Lascaris towers. Guarded the western coast against corsairs.
Small bay between Golden Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha — less crowded, with a plateau perfect for camping with sunset views.