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Fungus Rock
The distinctive offshore rock was closely connected with the history of Dwejra Tower and was once guarded because of its famous medicinal plant.
Explore Fungus Rock →Dwejra Tower
Dwejra Tower stands on the high ground between Dwejra Bay and the Inland Sea on Gozo’s western coast. Completed in 1652 during the reign of Grand Master Giovanni Paolo Lascaris, it formed part of the coastal watchtower system established by the Order of St John.
Its position gave the guards a wide view of the surrounding sea. The tower was intended to keep the exposed coastline under surveillance, warn of approaching vessels and help prevent unauthorised landings, including access to the nearby Fungus Rock.
Photographs
Built to guard the western coast
Dwejra was a vulnerable and isolated part of Gozo in the seventeenth century. The tower was financed by the Università of Gozo and equipped by the Order after its completion.
The tower was one of the Lascaris coastal towers, a group of defensive structures built to provide surveillance around the Maltese islands. Dwejra and Xlendi were among the final towers commissioned during the period of Grand Master Lascaris.
Fungus Rock
Dwejra Tower also had a particular role in protecting nearby Fungus Rock. The rock was associated with the highly prized medicinal plant known as fungus melitensis, and access to it was closely controlled.
In the eighteenth century the tower continued to watch over this part of the coast. Under Grand Master Manuel Pinto da Fonseca, measures were taken to make access to Fungus Rock more difficult.
The tower and its guns
Dwejra Tower was equipped with artillery after its construction. Historical records describe three six-pounder guns during the eighteenth century, together with powder, ammunition and other equipment required for the tower’s defence.
The tower was not simply a lookout. Its artillery gave the small garrison the ability to challenge vessels or landing parties and made it part of Gozo’s wider coastal defence network.
British period
The tower continued to have military and surveillance uses after the end of the Knights’ rule. Between 1839 and 1873 it was manned by the Royal Malta Fencible Artillery.
It was later abandoned for a period, but the strategic position remained useful. During the First World War the coastline was again watched, and Dwejra Tower was subsequently used as an observation post during the Second World War.
World War II
During the Second World War Dwejra Tower served as an observation post, continuing the role for which the site had first been selected almost three centuries earlier.
The tower therefore forms an unusual link between two very different periods of Malta’s military history: the coastal defence system of the Knights of St John and the twentieth-century wartime observation network.
Restoration
After years of exposure to weather and neglect, Dwejra Tower deteriorated considerably. Restoration work was undertaken by Din l-Art Ħelwa, helping to preserve the structure as an important part of Gozo’s architectural and military heritage.
The restored tower allows visitors to appreciate both its simple defensive architecture and its exceptional position overlooking the Dwejra landscape.
What to see around the tower
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Inland Sea
A sheltered coastal lagoon connected with the open Mediterranean by a dramatic natural tunnel.
Explore the Inland Sea →03
Dwejra
One of Gozo’s most distinctive coastal landscapes, with cliffs, rock formations, paths and viewpoints surrounding the tower.
Explore Dwejra →Visiting Dwejra Tower
Dwejra Tower is located within the Dwejra Heritage Park, close to the road leading down towards the Inland Sea and Dwejra Bay. The surrounding area is one of Gozo’s most visited coastal landscapes.
Access arrangements can change, so check current opening information before making a special journey. When the tower is open, visitors can explore the historic structure and appreciate the elevated views over the coast.
The surrounding terrain is exposed and rocky in places. Wear suitable footwear and take care near cliff edges and uneven ground.
Frequently asked questions
When was Dwejra Tower built?
Dwejra Tower was completed in 1652 during the reign of Grand Master Giovanni Paolo Lascaris.
Why was Dwejra Tower built?
It was built as a coastal watchtower to monitor Gozo’s exposed western coastline, warn of approaching vessels and help protect the area around Dwejra and Fungus Rock.
What is another name for Dwejra Tower?
The tower is also known as Qawra Tower or Torri tal-Qawra.
Was Dwejra Tower used during the World Wars?
Yes. The tower was used for coastal observation during the twentieth century, including during the Second World War.
Is Dwejra Tower open to visitors?
The tower is managed by Din l-Art Ħelwa and has been opened to the public following restoration. Opening arrangements can vary, so check current information before visiting.
Explore Gozo
Continue exploring Dwejra, Gozo’s coastal heritage and historic sites.