Comino
|
 |
A 3.5sq km islet, lying between northern Malta and southern Gozo, Comino is mainly hilly, rough terrain, with limestone cliffs at most of its coast, enjoying both the beauty of the rugged coastline as well as the splendid waters around it. Its name is derived from the cumin herb still grown here.
Centuries ago Comino was the perfect hiding place for Barbary Corsairs who often landed in areas where there were no defensive structures. This islet was the ideal location from where they could easily raid nearby Gozo and Malta. Consequently, around the year 1416, the Maltese people petitioned the Aragonese king, Alphonse V, to build a tower in Comino as a deterrent, but two hundred years had to pass before any serious work was taken in hand. Eventually a tower was erected by Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt in 1618 which was called St. Mary’s Tower.
St. Mary’s battery was built in 1715 and is situated facing the south Comino channel. It is semi-circular in structure and has a number of embrasures facing the sea. Still in their original spot, stand 2 of the original 24 pds cannon which were never shifted due to their weight.
During the Blockade of the period 1798-1800, Comino became a local confinement for spies. In 1829 it was abandoned by the British Military and in later years handed over to the civil authorities. Much closer to our times - in 1982 - the Government handed it to the local army to be used against contraband and other illegal activities such as hunting at sea. After long years of neglect it was very recently restored to its former glory.
Although there are a few inhabitants, Comino is, in general, a quiet and pleasant vacation site. A 4-star hotel provides all amenities to its guests. But other day visitors frequenting the islet, need to provide for their own meals and protection from the sun’s rays.
A tiny sandy beach, called Santa Maria Bay, is used as a landing stage for passenger boats. A small church dedicated to the “Return of Our Lady from Egypt”, dating from 1618, and a police station stand in the square close by. This bay is a very popular bathing place for families with small children.
Another small sandy beach is partly used as a concession by the hotel which stands on its shore. The hotel’s boat berths at the pier in the bay.
But the most outstanding landmark of Comino, however, is the Blue Lagoon – a narrow channel separating Comino from its sister islet of Cominotto. The white blanket of sand at the bottom turns the deep blue, fresh and crystal clear waters into a light turquoise hue. Bathing in these limpid waters is a stimulating experience which is hard to match anywhere else on these islands. Diving and snorkelings are very popular because the sea-fauna and the unspoiled waters are particularly adequate for such sport.
|
|
|
|
|
