Set the scene.
Launched in December 1915, Nasturtium was an Arabis-class sloop, a type of naval vessel intended here for minesweeping. It operated from Malta during the First World War.
Here’s the twist.
A mine struck its starboard, or right-hand, side on 27 April 1916. Attempts to tow the tilting vessel failed; the final crew members evacuated before it sank early the next morning.
Why it still matters.
Consider the difficult task: protecting a harbour required finding hazards hidden beneath the surface. This wreck records the danger faced by the vessels keeping sea routes usable.
🧠 One to think about +
What does this story change about the way you see Malta today? Pick one detail you’d tell a friend — then check its source below.