Plizio Visual Lab
Mtarfa Clock Tower
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.
- Location: Malta
- Top sights: Mdina Panorama · Bastion Square · Annunciation Church
- Nearby: Mġarr, Malta (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 15 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 19 | 23 | 26 | 27 | 25 | 23 | 20 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 74 | 65 | 51 | 33 | 17 | 11 | 4 | 10 | 63 | 82 | 95 | 82 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
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
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Mtarfa Clock Tower (10)
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?
Can you visit the inside of the tower?
Why was the tower built?
Is there a good view from there?
Is there parking nearby?
Mtarfa Clock Tower: where is it located?
Mtarfa Clock Tower: what is there to see?
Mtarfa Clock Tower: when is the best time to visit?
Mtarfa Clock Tower: why is it worth visiting?




























