It was built by the Order of Saint John in 1715 as one of a series of fortifications around the coasts of the Maltese Islands.

[2] Vendôme Tower was built between 1715 and 1716 as part of the Order of Saint John's first building program of coastal fortifications.

The tower was named after Philippe de Vendôme, the Grand Prior of France.

The structure was originally surrounded by a ditch, with a drawbridge leading to the main entrance.

[4] The tower was intended to prevent enemy ships from landing at Marsaxlokk Bay.