Perched high above Mellieħa Bay, The Red Tower (also known as St. Agatha’s Tower), is one of Malta’s most iconic 17th-century watchtowers. Apart from large fortifications, Malta’s network of coastal watch towers began taking form in the early 17th century, primarily under the rule of the Order of St. John. These towers were constructed as a direct response to increasing threats from Ottoman forces and Barbary pirates, who frequently raided the Mediterranean.

The towers formed a chain of visual communication by using smoke by day and fire by night, relaying rapid warnings across Gozo to the Grand Harbour.

The Red Tower gets its name for its distinctive rust-red exterior, although no one is completely certain on why this tower got this colour. It was constructed in 1649 under the rule of Grand Master Jean Paul Lascaris of the Order of St. John.

Its purpose was strategic: to serve as a lookout post guarding against Ottoman and pirate incursions from the north, and as a communication link between Gozo and the central fortifications of Malta.

With walls over four meters thick and the capacity to house up to 50 soldiers, the tower was a formidable line of defense, equipped with cannons and ample stores for prolonged sieges.

“The face of Lascaris” is a common Maltese phase denoting someone with a grumpy disposition. Lascaris was noted for being a hard taskmaster who commanded staunch rules on the knights forbidding them from promiscuous activities and socializing under his watch. He was well into his eighties and probably envied the youthful vigor of the knights.

Ironically, a stern stone face is carved on the Red Tower’s entrance with great likeness to The Face of Lascaris. This enduring visage served both as a symbolic guardian and a reminder of the Order’s authority. Some legends claim it was placed there to “watch over the watchmen”, ensuring eternal vigilance from both invaders and those entrusted with Malta’s defense.

Today, the Red Tower stands restored, silently overlooking the sea it once defended.