Lanzun Tower, also known as Castello Lanzun (or Torri ta’ Lanzun in Maltese) is a 15^th-century fortified farmhouse in Mensija in the limits of San Gwann. Still there today, this building has had quite the ride through history! Did you know...

Going back to the roots

Lanzun Tower is named after former occupant Wenzu Lanzun (Lorenzo Lanzon), who was a man from Birgu who lived there during the 1676 plague epidemic. The farmhouse is an example of traditional Maltese architecture, consisting of a number of rooms around a central courtyard.

What was Lanzun’s Tower used for in its glory days?

Lanzun Tower was modified and enlarged a number of times over the years, first in 1713 when it was fortified to provide refuge for the locals in the area in the event of a corsair raid. During this period, it was also used as a hunting lodge for the Grand Master of the Order of the Knights of St John.

During the World War II, the farmhouse was used as an observation post to identify approaching enemy aircraft. In fact, it was severely damaged in various air raids.

Later in 1972, the building was purchased by Robert Gayre, who restored it and handed it to the Malta obedience of the Military and Hospitaller Order of St Lazarus of Jerusalem. It was formally inaugurated as the Order’s official headquarters by Grand Master Fransisco de Borbon y Borbon on 12^th May 1973. Yep, quite the history!