Listing Type : Martello Tower
Location : Channel Islands
Victoria Martello Tower was built in 1837, and was named in honour of Queen Victoria to commemorate her ascension to the British throne that same year. Situated in Jersey, the fortification was strategically constructed to defend the coastal approaches of both Anne Port and Gorey Harbour.
Key Architectural Specifications
- Dimensions: The circular stone structure stands 33 ft (10.1 m) in height with a diameter of 32 ft (9.8 m).
- Interior Layout: Inside the tower, a central circular staircase connects its three distinct floors.
- Armament: For offensive capabilities, the tower’s roof was armed with a single 24-pounder smoothbore cannon.
Defensive Features
- Victoria Tower is notable for being the only Martello tower on Jersey protected by a moat. This dry moat measures 12 ft (3.7 m) deep and 10 ft (3.0 m) across.
- Access to the tower is provided by a drawbridge spanning the moat.
- To further deter attackers who managed to cross or breach the perimeter, the base of the tower is fitted with defensive loopholes.
- In the counterscarp, beneath the drawbridge, there is a small chamber with two doors, most likely this served as a secure storeroom for the garrison.
Victoria Martello Tower was built in 1837, and was named in honour of Queen Victoria to commemorate her ascension to the British throne that same year. Situated in Jersey, the fortification was strategically constructed to defend the coastal approaches of both Anne Port and Gorey Harbour.
Key Architectural Specifications
- Dimensions: The circular stone structure stands 33 ft (10.1 m) in height with a diameter of 32 ft (9.8 m).
- Interior Layout: Inside the tower, a central circular staircase connects its three distinct floors.
- Armament: For offensive capabilities, the tower’s roof was armed with a single 24-pounder smoothbore cannon.
Defensive Features
- Victoria Tower is notable for being the only Martello tower on Jersey protected by a moat. This dry moat measures 12 ft (3.7 m) deep and 10 ft (3.0 m) across.
- Access to the tower is provided by a drawbridge spanning the moat.
- To further deter attackers who managed to cross or breach the perimeter, the base of the tower is fitted with defensive loopholes.
- In the counterscarp, beneath the drawbridge, there is a small chamber with two doors, most likely this served as a secure storeroom for the garrison.