Story: Historical reenactment at Red Tower

As the car came round the bend on top of the village of Mellieha in the north of Malta I could already see the Red Tower on top of Marfa Ridge a short distance away. Its location is romantic and fairytale like, perched high overlooking a bay on one side and two islands in the channel at the back. It was built purposely as a watch tower so this vantage point was a natural choice.

St. Agatha’s Tower, or Red Tower as it is known nowadays, was built in 1649, at a time when pirates roamed the seas and attacked inhabitants near coastal areas. Although it was still manned during both World Wars and occupied by the army as a radar tower until recently, it had sustained quite a lot of damage over time until the National Trust of Malta, an NGO called Din l-Art Helwa, decided to restore it.

I’m always a bit weary about festivals in general, always dreading that they might be too commercial or touristic. I had read about historical reenactments taking place in various countries and always wondered about their authenticity. So when I read about the historical reenactments at Red Tower, I decided to have a look for myself.

The tower’s four metre thick walls caught my interest immediately as I crossed over the little drawbridge and into its main hall. I was very pleased to see the walls were well restored and interesting features kept intact. A narrow spiral staircase led me to the roof which affords a breathtaking view for miles around. It was a clear day so I could see the Islands of Comino and Gozo very clearly as well as the frequent ferries connecting the two main islands.

The historical reenactment by soldiers in period costumes was being held outside. A total of six men in costume marched around the tower’s perimeter as was done in bygone days. Their replica muskets were fired into the air and the smell of gunpowder helped one’s imagination go back to the days of musketeers and pirates.

It seems that the organizers go to great lengths to be as historically correct as possible when putting up these reenactments for the public. History books and experts are consulted to be as authentic as possible. These reenactments help to keep history alive especially when taking place in their original locations. My praise goes to ngo’s like National Trusts worldwide for their work in preserving and restoring so many buildings for the enjoyment of the present and future generations.

To become a member and give your contribute to the preservation of the historical heritage in the country you’re travelling in, look up and visit the local National Trust site.

More information about buildings and sites restored by Din l-Art Helwa, as well as news about forthcoming events visit http://www.dinlarthelwa.org/index.asp