Comino is a small island in Malta that exudes tranquility and is renowned for its pristine beauty, crystal-clear waters, and white sandy beaches. Located between Malta and Gozo, the two largest islands of the archipelago, Comino has become a popular tourist destination. It also serves as a bird sanctuary and protected area under Natura 2000. Spanning just 3.5 sq km, it is entirely surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea.
The most famous attraction on Comino is the Blue Lagoon, a mesmerizing bay with turquoise waters that draws thousands of visitors each year seeking peaceful vacations, diving, or water sports. Besides the lagoon, the island boasts stunning caves and secluded beaches away from the crowds.
Historically, Comino was sparsely populated or even abandoned for long periods. Today, only two residents live there permanently. Administratively, it belongs to the village of Xaghra in southeastern Gozo, where a police officer and priest visit during summer months to serve tourists when needed.
Comino has been inhabited since Roman times and was known as ‘Hephaistia,’ indicating ties to ancient Greeks. Despite its small size, it holds historical significance due to the St. Mary’s Tower (Torri ta’ Santa Marija), built in 1618 as a watchtower to deter pirate attacks on ships traveling between Malta and Gozo.
In the late 13th century, the exiled Spanish philosopher Abraham Abulafia lived on Comino, composing works like ‘The Book of the Bird’ and ‘Words of Beauty.’ The Knights of St. John used the island for hunting and relaxation, penalizing poachers severely. During French occupation, Comino served as a quarantine station and prison. Between 1982-2002, the tower housed Malta’s Armed Forces to prevent illegal bird hunting.
Interestingly, Comino has appeared in Hollywood films. The St. Mary’s Tower featured as the prison in ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’ (2002) starring Jim Caviezel, while the calm waters of the Blue Lagoon were showcased in ‘Troy’ (2004) featuring Brad Pitt as Achilles.