White Tower gets low-impact floodlights

Project was funded by GasanMamo Insurance

Discreet floodlights were on Wednesday evening turned on, illuminating the spectacular White Tower at Aħrax, Mellieħa, thanks to a generous donation from GasanMamo Insurance.

The project was complex as the desire to light up the tower’s stunning silhouette had to be balanced against the need to ensure that the night sky and the abundant bird life in the area were protected from any disturbing light sources. 

Following considerable advice from experts, custom-made low-level lights were set up to light the perimeter of the tower’s historic ditch, rendering it safe. The project also required the installation of three-phase electricity, and a CCTV was also introduced to increase security.

The switch was thrown on Wednesday evening, to make the most of the sunset setting overlooking the Comino Channel, in the presence of Din l-Art Ħelwa council members, directors from GasanMamo Insurance, and a delegation from the Mellieħa Local Council that hold the title of the tower. Din l-Art Ħelwa looks after the site under the terms of an agreement with the Council, following the successful restoration of this historic site which started in 2016.

Patrick Calleja, Executive President Din l-Art Ħelwa, explained: “As the national trust for Malta, Din l-Art Ħelwa was aware of the need raise awareness about this wonderfully restored site without compromising on the surrounding natural habitat. Thanks to the wonderful assistance of GasanMamo Insurance, this is now a reality – and coming as it does in the year we celebrate our 60th anniversary, we could not be more proud.”

Julian Mamo, Managing Director of GasanMamo Insurance, expressed gratitude to Din l-Art Ħelwa for their incredible work in preserving and protecting Malta’s national treasures. GasanMamo is a longstanding supporter of Din l-Art Ħelwa and holds Malta’s cultural heritage close to its heart. “We are proud to have contributed to this significant step in ensuring the long life of this beautiful tower,” he stated.

The tower was built in 1656 and was the sixth of the 13 coastal watch towers to be built by Grand Master Martin de Redin to protect the coast from invading forces during the Order of St John’s rule in Malta.  Its defences were further strengthened in 1716 with the addition of a semi-circular battery and ditch.  With the departure of the Order, the tower was occupied by the Royal Fencible Artillery and, in 1918, the British Naval Authorities installed a Hydrophones Training Station. After a period of use by various owners, the tower fell into a state of abandon until Din l-Art Ħelwa took up its cause with the Mellieħa Local Council and adapted this iconic heritage site into one with educational purposes rendering it accessible to visitors and students. 

Its location is particularly important for its marine biodiversity and Din l-Art Ħelwa volunteers regularly welcome visitors who can enjoy interactive screens and documentaries in its visitors’ centre.  A small conference room is also popular for team activities and lectures.

L to R: Mellieha councillor Corinne Castillo, DLH council member Maria Grazia Cassar, Mellieha mayor Gabriel Micallef, DLH executive president Patrick Calleja, GasanMamo Insurance managing director Julian Mamo, and GasanMamo director Mark Mamo