St Thomas Tower Reopened as a State-Of-The-Art Piracy Museum

Marsascala’s historic St Thomas Tower has reopened as Malta’s first dedicated Corsair and Piracy Museum following a €3.39 million restoration project co-funded by the EU and the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA).

The 17th-century coastal fortification, originally built in 1614 by the Knights of St John, has been transformed into a state-of-the-art cultural attraction.

The museum explores Malta’s rich maritime history, showcasing stories of daring corsairs, feared pirates, and key naval events such as the Maltese Militia’s retaking of the Tower during the French blockade of 1798.

Visitors can experience interactive digital displays, projection mapping, and multi-sensory installations designed to engage audiences of all ages.

Deputy Prime Minister and Tourism Minister Ian Borg described the project as a major boost for cultural tourism, while European Funds Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi praised its role in preserving heritage and strengthening cultural identity.

The restoration works included structural consolidation, masonry repairs, architectural reinstatements, and upgrades to improve accessibility and energy efficiency.

Now the largest Wignacourt tower in Malta, St Thomas Tower offers daily guided tours, educational programmes, and family-friendly activities from 10am to 4:30pm. More details are available at www.wirtartna.org/st-thomas-tower.

This transformation cements Marsascala as a growing hub for heritage tourism.

#MaltaDaily