Talks at Dwejra Tower

How much do you know about this 17th century knights-era coastal watchtower, which was originally built in 1652 at the time of Grand Master Lascaris?

No pre-booking is required, but people are requested to arrive a few minutes before each talk begins, as spaces are limited. A suggested donation of €5 (cash only) per person is requested on the day, or alternatively, donations can be made online anytime via https://dinlarthelwa.org/product/donation/ (the minimum online donation is €5). Talks will be in English and Maltese.

The event will provide visitors with the perfect opportunity to look around inside the recently restored heritage site and discover more about the important defensive role played by Gozo’s watchtowers.

The tower also had a unique role guarding Il-Ġebla tal-Ġeneral, the General’s Rock or, as it is referred to today, the Fungus Rock. On this tiny, isolated rock grew Cynomorium coccineum or Fungus Melitensis, which the Knights considered to be highly valuable. The fungus was believed to possess powerful medicinal virtues.

The guest speaker, Dr Stanley Farrugia Randon will explain the building’s architecture, military role and recent restoration works, before signing copies of his fully illustrated, 2018 book ‘Heritage Saved’ which will be on sale for a discounted price of just €3 a copy, with all the proceeds going towards supporting the work of Din l-Art Ħelwa.

Dr Farrugia Randon is a medical doctor who has been an active committee member of Din l-Art Ħelwa for the past 30 years, during which time he has served as president of the Youth Section and been involved with numerous restoration projects. He was previously the volunteer warden of Wignacourt Tower in St Paul’s Bay and has published numerous articles and books on topics related to health, the environment and heritage sites of the Maltese Islands.