Wignacourt Tower & the Chapel of St Paul’s Shipwreck.
- Maria Xuereb
- Feb 6
- 3 min read
Historic Landmarks to Visit in St Paul’s Bay, Malta
St Paul’s Bay is not only loved for its beautiful coastline and relaxed atmosphere — it is also one of the most historically rich destinations in Malta. Guests staying in our St Paul’s Bay holiday apartment can easily explore two must-visit landmarks that tell powerful stories of the island’s past: Wignacourt Tower in St Paul’s Bay and the Chapel of St Paul’s Shipwreck.
Wignacourt Tower – Malta’s Oldest Coastal Watchtower
Built in 1610, Wignacourt Tower was the second tower to be built in the Maltese island, after Garzer Tower in Gozo and is the oldest surviving watchtower in Malta. It was commissioned by Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt as part of a coastal defense system to protect the island from Ottoman and pirate attacks arriving by sea.
Why Visit Wignacourt Tower?
🏰 Historic significance – one of Malta’s earliest military fortifications
🌊 Panoramic views – stunning views over St Paul’s Bay, St Paul's Islands and the Mediterranean Sea
🖼️ Museum experience – inside, you’ll find exhibitions about Malta’s coastal defenses, weapons, and daily life during the Knights of St John era.
The tower is compact and easy to explore, making it a great stop for families, history lovers, and anyone looking for a short but meaningful cultural visit. Wignacourt Tower is well worth a visit!
Chapel of St Paul’s Shipwreck – A Place of Faith and History.
Just a short walk from the tower lies the Chapel of St Paul’s Shipwreck, a quiet yet deeply symbolic religious site. The chapel commemorates the biblical event described in the Acts of the Apostles, when St Paul was shipwrecked on Malta in 60 AD, the place where it is believed a bonfire was lit to keep the stranded survivors warm after the wreck, and where the Apostle was bitten by a viper which left him unharmed this event forever shaped Malta’s Christian identity.
What Makes This Chapel Special?
⛪ Religious importance – marks one of the most significant moments in Maltese history
🎨 Simple, peaceful interior – ideal for quiet reflection away from busy tourist areas
📖 Cultural storytelling – offers insight into how Christianity spread across Malta
Unlike larger churches, this chapel feels intimate and calm, making it perfect for visitors seeking a moment of peace while learning about Malta’s spiritual roots.
Visiting Tips for Tourists and Families
🚶 Easy access – both landmarks are within walking distance of our St Paul’s Bay accommodation, making them easy to explore on foot.
🚌 Public transport friendly – several bus stops are located nearby, ideal if you’re not renting a car.
👨👩👧 Family-friendly – short visits, open spaces, and educational value make these landmarks perfect for families staying in our family-friendly holiday apartment in Malta.
📸 Best time to visit – plan your walk in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and soft lighting, then continue discovering more things to do in St Paul’s Bay.
You can easily combine both sites into a relaxed half-day cultural walk, followed by lunch at one of the many seaside restaurants in St Paul’s Bay — before heading back to relax or book your stay directly with us for the best value.
Why These Landmarks Are Worth Adding to Your St Paul’s Bay Itinerary
Visiting Wignacourt Tower in St Paul’s Bay and the Chapel of St Paul’s Shipwreck allows you to experience Malta beyond the beaches. These iconic landmarks tell a powerful story of protection, survival, and faith — all set against the stunning scenery of St Paul’s Bay.
Whether you’re planning a short break or a longer family holiday, guests staying in our holiday apartment in St Paul’s Bay will find that these historic sites add depth and meaning to their visit and perfectly complement the area’s relaxed coastal charm. For the best value and a more personal stay, you can book directly with us and enjoy everything the area has to offer.
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