The 19th century Kenuna Tower and its gardens will be closed “until further notice.” Due to “structural danger caused by natural elements,” the Nadur Local Council said.

In a statement on social media, the Local Council said, “we are working closely with the relevant authorities to assess the situation and find a safe solution.”

It warned that “this process may take time, but public safety remains our top priority.”

This semaphore tower is one of only three on the Maltese Islands, purposefully built to serve as communication tools during the British colonial era.

These towers served as vital links in a semaphore telegraph network that facilitated rapid long-distance communication, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the islands, facilitating efficient transmission of information.

In February of last year, the three towers, and other sites of importance, were added to the National Inventory of the Cultural Property of the Maltese Islands by the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage.

The National Inventory is a cultural heritage register curated and compiled by the Superintendence as one of its functions established by the Cultural Heritage Act (CAP 445).

Photo: Nadur Local Council – Peter Mohr

Permalink: Gozo’s 19th century Kenuna Tower closed due to “structural danger”