It was commissioned by Grand Master Jean-Paul de Lascaris-Castellar as one of the 'Lascaris towers'.
The tower functioned as a signal station, communicating with nearby coastal fortifications using smoke signals by day and fire by night.
During the British colonial period, the tower was intermittently used to monitor the coastline against smuggling.
The masonry is composed of local globigerina limestone, which is prone to erosion from salt spray.
In 1999, the Xlendi Tower Administrative Committee was formed specifically to oversee its preservation and public access.
It originally housed a garrison of soldiers who were responsible for manning the cannons mounted on the roof.
Torri tax-Xlendi, also known as Xlendi Tower, is the oldest free-standing watchtower on the island of Gozo, constructed by the Knights of St. John in 1650. The structure is built on a promontory overlooking Xlendi Bay and served as part of a coastal defensive network to monitor sea approaches. It features a square base with battered walls designed to withstand artillery fire. The tower was restored in the 21st century by Din l-Art Ħelwa, a Maltese heritage organization. It currently serves as a lookout point providing unobstructed views of the Mediterranean Sea and the rugged cliffs of Gozo's southern coastline.
From the trail path looking back at the tower with the bay and open sea in the background.
Wear sturdy footwear with good grip, as the terrain surrounding the tower is uneven and rocky.
Bring sun protection and water, as there is no shade or facilities directly at the tower site.
Combine your visit with a walk along the cliff-side path that begins near the tower entrance.
Do not attempt to walk on the narrow cliff edges surrounding the site during high winds.
Open for public viewing on select days of the week, typically managed by volunteers; check current signage at the tower entrance.
Maintain respectful behavior; do not climb on the historical masonry or remove stones.
