CominoOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt

From Pirate Hideout to Knight's Watch

Comino, or Kemmuna in Maltese, has a history that stretches back to Roman times, with evidence of farming settlements found at Santa Marija Bay. For centuries, the island was largely uninhabited or sparsely populated. Its coastline and caves provided hiding spots for pirates and corsairs who preyed on ships traveling between Malta and Gozo during the Middle Ages. These marauders used Comino as a staging ground for their raids.

The strategic importance of Comino became evident to the Knights of St. John. In 1416, the Maltese petitioned their king, Alfonso V of Aragon, to build a tower on Comino to deter these attacks and serve as an early warning system. Although funds were initially diverted, Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt ordered the construction of Santa Marija Tower in 1618. Completed in 1620, this fortified watchtower, built on high ground, allowed guards to monitor both the North and South Comino Channels. It was a link in the defense and communication network between Gozo and Mdina.

Isolation and Transformation

Beyond its defensive role, Comino served as a place of exile for errant knights during the 16th and 17th centuries. Those convicted of minor crimes were often sentenced to man Santa Marija Tower. The Knights also used the island as a hunting ground for wild boar and hares, enforcing rules against poaching. During the French occupation of Malta (1798-1800), Comino was used as a quarantine station and an isolation hospital. The island's population peaked at around 150 during this period, as it also became a temporary prison for opponents of the regime. In the 19th century, the British military abandoned Santa Marija Tower in 1829. For several decades it was used by local civil authorities, potentially as an isolation hospital or a wintering pen for farm animals. The tower saw active service again during both World War I and World War II.

• —Santa Marija Tower — This 17th-century watchtower, built in 1618 by the Knights of St. John, offers views across the Comino Channel towards Malta and Gozo. You can see its limestone walls and corner turrets, designed for defense.
• —Old Barracks (ruins adjacent to the tower) — Near Santa Marija Tower, you will find the ruins of the Old Barracks, which housed the soldiers manning the tower. These structures show the daily life of those stationed on Comino centuries ago.
• —Our Lady's Chapel, Comino — A Roman Catholic chapel, originally dedicated to the Annunciation. Built in 1618 and enlarged in 1667 and 1716, it is open sporadically for religious celebrations.
• —Santa Marija Bay — This bay on the northern side of Comino offers an alternative to the more crowded Blue Lagoon. It features a sandy beach and calm waters.
• —Santa Marija Caves (exterior view) — Located along the southern coast, these marine caves are a spot for boat excursions. You can observe their formations from the outside, and some grottoes can be entered by boat, depending on sea conditions.
• —Santa Marija Battery (exterior structure) — Constructed in 1715 by the Order of Saint John, this coastal artillery battery was part of Comino's defensive network. You can see its structure and its role in safeguarding the South Comino Channel.

The best times to visit Comino for warm weather are May, June, and September. During these months, temperatures are pleasant, and the sea is warm enough for swimming. April and October also offer good conditions with fewer crowds. The peak tourist season runs from June to September, especially July and August, meaning the Blue Lagoon and other popular spots will be crowded. The summer sun can make walking and exploring uncomfortable due to a lack of shade. Avoid visiting between December and March if you plan to swim, as it is cold, and winds and rain are more common. Some facilities may also have reduced hours or be closed during the off-peak winter months.

Comino is a car-free island, so getting around is primarily on foot. The island is small enough to explore in a few hours, with a full loop taking approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours. To reach Comino, you will need to take a ferry or a boat trip. Regular ferry services depart from Ċirkewwa and Marfa Bay on Malta, and from Mġarr Harbour on Gozo. The ferry ride from Ċirkewwa takes about 25-30 minutes, while from Mġarr, it is approximately 15 minutes. Several boat tour operators also offer trips to Comino from Sliema and Buġibba/St. Paul's Bay on Malta. It is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak season. There are no public car parks on Comino itself. There are no market days on Comino, and due to its tiny permanent population, local shops are limited. Bring your own snacks and drinks, as options on the island are scarce.