Saint Mark's Tower facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Saint Mark's Tower |
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|---|---|
| Torri ta' Qalet Marku | |
| Part of the De Redin towers | |
| Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq, Naxxar, Malta | |
Saint Mark's Tower viewed from the south
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| Coordinates | 35°56′47.3″N 14°27′12″E / 35.946472°N 14.45333°E |
| Type | Coastal watchtower |
| Site information | |
| Owner | Government of Malta |
| Controlled by | Din l-Art Ħelwa |
| Open to the public |
Yes (by appointment) |
| Condition | Intact |
| Site history | |
| Built | 1658 |
| Built by | Order of Saint John |
| Materials | Limestone |
Saint Mark's Tower, also known as Qalet Marku Tower (Maltese: Torri ta' Qalet Marku), is a small, historic watchtower in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq, a part of Naxxar, Malta. It was completed in 1658. This tower was the third one built in a group known as the De Redin towers. Today, the tower is still in very good condition.
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History of Saint Mark's Tower
Saint Mark's Tower was built in 1658. It stands on a spot called Qrejten Point in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq. This area is on the northern coast of Malta. The tower might have been built where an even older watch post once stood.
Why Was the Tower Built?
The tower was built to help protect the coast. From Saint Mark's Tower, you can see Għallis Tower to the west. You can also see Madliena Tower to the east. This allowed them to communicate and watch over a large area. Building the tower cost 408 scudi, which was the money used back then.
How the Tower Was Designed
The tower looks like other De Redin towers. It has a square shape and two floors. There is also a small turret on the roof. This design was common for watchtowers of that time.
Weapons and Changes Over Time
In 1741, a special type of weapon called a fougasse was built near the tower. A fougasse was like a small mine that could be fired at enemies. For a long time, people thought this fougasse was lost. But it was found again in 2014 during road work!
By 1743, the tower was no longer actively used for defense. However, in 1792, a group called the Congregation of War ordered that it be armed again. They put a 3-pounder iron gun there. Later, the British built a small guard room in front of the tower. This guard room is now in ruins.
Saint Mark's Tower Today
Today, Din l-Art Ħelwa takes care of Saint Mark's Tower. This organization works to protect Malta's heritage. They restored the tower in 1997, making sure it stayed in good shape.
Visiting the Tower
The tower is still in good condition. However, the area around it sometimes has litter. This is often left by people who camp on the nearby peninsula. It's important to keep historical sites clean for everyone to enjoy.
You can visit Saint Mark's Tower! You just need to make an appointment first.
See also
In Spanish: Torre de San Marcos para niños
