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Mtarfa Clock Tower

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Landmark
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Mtarfa Clock Tower (Malta)

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The Mtarfa Clock Tower was constructed in 1895 as an integral part of the British military barracks on the plateau overlooking Mdina. It served as a prominent landmark and a primary timekeeper for the British troops and their families stationed at the garrison. Built from local Maltese globigerina limestone, the tower features a square plan and stands as a testament to late Victorian military architecture. The intricate clock mechanism within the tower regulated the daily routines and military drills of the garrison for many years. During World War II, the tower remained intact despite the heavy bombardment of the surrounding area due to its proximity to the Ta' Qali airfield. Today, it is one of Malta's most recognizable colonial-era monuments, symbolizing the long period of British naval and military presence on the island. Its elevated position features panoramic views of the central Maltese countryside.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C151415161923262725232016
Rain mm74655133171141063829582

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Mtarfa Clock Tower is a prominent landmark, accessible from the outside at any time. The interior is usually not open to the public.
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Typical hours
As an outdoor monument, it is visible 24 hours a day. There are no fixed visiting hours for the interior.
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Photography
Photography of the tower from outside is allowed anytime and yields great shots. The best pictures are taken at sunset or against a clear blue sky.
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Time needed
A quick visit and a few photos take about 10-15 minutes. If you want to explore the surroundings, allow half an hour.
Combine with
The tower is in Mtarfa, near St Luke's Church and the former hospital buildings. Combine your visit with a walk through the historic settlement.
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Getting there
Mtarfa is reachable by bus from Valletta or Mosta. From the bus stop, the tower is a few minutes' walk away.
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Insider tip
Combine the visit with the nearby Mtarfa Garden for a quiet break. On clear days, you get a wide view over the island.

Geography

Coordinates
35.89170, 14.39860

Facts

  • Year built: 1895
  • Style: Victorian military architecture
  • Material: Local limestone
  • Purpose: Timekeeping for British garrison
  • Location: Mtarfa plateau
  • Status: Well-preserved colonial monument

Explore nearby

Notable places around

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Sights in the town Mtarfa Clock Tower (10)

Mdina Panorama

Viewpoint in Malta, offering a wide view over Mdina.

Bastion Square

Viewpoint in Malta, offering a panorama of the surroundings.

Annunciation Church🏛 museum

Church in Mdina, Malta, dedicated to the Annunciation.

🕒 Mo-Su 09:00-17:00🆓

Palazzo Falson🏛 museum

Medieval townhouse in Mdina, Malta, now a museum.

cart ruts

Grooves carved into rock in Malta, dating from antiquity.

Knisja tal-Lunzjata

Church in Mdina, Malta, dedicated to the Annunciation.

Knisja ta' Santu Rokku

Church building in Mdina, Malta, dedicated to Saint Roch.

Palazzo Santa Sofia

Palace in Mdina, Malta, a historic building.

Knisja ta' San Nikola

Church building in Mdina, Malta, dedicated to Saint Nicholas.

Roman Villa

Roman villa in Malta, remains of an ancient settlement.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the clock tower located?
It is located in Mtarfa, a town on a hill near Mdina and Rabat.
Can you visit the inside of the tower?
It is normally closed, but it is occasionally opened for cultural events.
Why was the tower built?
It was built in the late 19th century by the British as part of their military base.
Is there a good view from there?
Yes, the location gives wide views over the countryside and across to Mdina.
Is there parking nearby?
There is plenty of free street parking available in the roads surrounding the tower in Mtarfa.
Mtarfa Clock Tower: where is it located?
Mtarfa Clock Tower is located in Malta.
Mtarfa Clock Tower: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mdina Panorama, Bastion Square, Annunciation Church.
Mtarfa Clock Tower: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Mtarfa Clock Tower: why is it worth visiting?
The Mtarfa Clock Tower was constructed in 1895 as an integral part of the British military barracks on the plateau overlooking Mdina.
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