A one-of-a-kind watch tower which was left to crumble after years of neglect may be restored after The Sunday Times took up the issue.

The Żnuber turret, which according to Mario Farrugia from Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna dates back to the time of the knights, is situated in the limits of Manikata and forms part of the Majjistral Nature Park.

Although the tower looks intact from one side, the back is crumbling with several boulders missing as a result of misuse and vandalism.

After being sent photos of the tower's dire state by The Sunday Times, a spokesman for the Resources Ministry said the Parks Department has requested the Lands Department to transfer ownership of the site.

"Once this occurs the ministry intends to restore it and use it in conjunction with the Majjistral Nature Park," he said.

Mr Farrugia said the tower is believed to have been built by the civil government, Università, and was the only one of its kind in Malta.

"Unless something is done, there will be nothing left of it in a few years' time," he said.

Mr Farrugia said the foundation would have liked to restore the tower itself, but lacked the funds - some €50,000 - to carry out the works.

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