Żonqor Tower facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Żonqor Tower |
|
|---|---|
| Torri taż-Żonqor | |
| Part of the De Redin towers | |
| Marsaskala, Malta | |
| Coordinates | 35°52′3.2″N 14°34′26.8″E / 35.867556°N 14.574111°E |
| Type | Coastal watchtower |
| Site history | |
| Built | 1659 |
| Built by | Order of Saint John |
| Materials | Limestone |
| Fate | Demolished, 1915 |
The Żonqor Tower (also known as Torri taż-Żonqor in Maltese) was a small watchtower located near Żonqor Point in Marsaskala, Malta. It was originally called Torre di Zoncol. This tower was built in 1659. It was one of many towers constructed to protect Malta's coast.
Contents
Żonqor Tower: A Coastal Protector
What Was Żonqor Tower?
The Żonqor Tower was part of a group of towers known as the De Redin towers. These towers were built by the Order of Saint John. They were constructed to defend the island of Malta from attacks by sea. The Żonqor Tower was the eleventh tower built in this series. It stood on or near the site of an even older medieval watch post.
Why Was It Built?
The main job of Żonqor Tower was to guard the entrance to Marsaskala Bay. It worked together with another nearby tower, the Saint Thomas Tower. Together, they kept watch over the coastline. These towers helped to spot enemy ships early. This gave the defenders time to prepare for any invasion. The towers were important for the island's coastal defense.
What Happened to the Tower?
Sadly, Żonqor Tower no longer stands today. It was taken down by the British military in 1915. This happened because new, more modern forts were being built. The tower was demolished to clear the way. This made sure the new forts had a clear view for their guns. Today, a World War II-era pillbox stands where the old tower once was. A pillbox is a small, concrete bunker used for defense.
See also
In Spanish: Torre Zonqor para niños
