Lascaris Tower above Għajn Tuffieħa (1637) — one of ten towers defending the western coast. Stands above Golden Bay, Malta's best sunset spot.
Grand Master Giovanni Paolo Lascaris commissioned ten watchtowers between 1637 and 1640 to strengthen coastal defence at points particularly vulnerable to corsair landings. The Lascaris tower above Għajn Tuffieħa stands on a cliff over Golden Bay — one of Malta's few sandy beaches, and thus one of the easiest places to land from the sea.
The Lascaris towers were mid-sized — between the mighty Wignacourt towers (with residential floors and artillery) and the later, miniature De Redin towers. They had a square base, one floor, and a firing platform on the roof. The garrison consisted of several guards armed with muskets and a signal fire. The tower above Għajn Tuffieħa controlled the western stretch of coast, overlooking Riviera Bay and Golden Bay.
Today the tower overlooks one of Malta's most beautiful sunsets. Cliffs dropping to the sea, a sandy beach below, and a horizon where Europe ends — a view that draws photographers and romantics. The tower is accessible from outside.
Practical tip: The tower is above Golden Bay beach. Free external access. The best sunset spot on Malta's western coast.
Above Golden Bay beach. Free external access. Perfect sunset spot.
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Golden Bay is one of Malta's few sandy beaches accessible by car. Golden sand, lifeguards, bar, and sunbeds. Radisson hotel on the beach. Popular sunset spot.
Watchtower above Tuffieħa — a link in the 17th-century chain of towers on the western coast. The fire and smoke system relayed warnings to Mdina within minutes.
Riviera Bay refers to the rocky swimming platforms on the northern edge of Ghajn Tuffieha Bay, offering flat rock sunbathing and deep water entry without the 200-step descent.