Set the scene.
Cittadella rises above Victoria, also known as Rabat. Its commanding position made it a centre of defence and administration. Different periods left different walls, buildings and street details.
Here’s the twist.
Until 1637, Gozo’s inhabitants were required to spend the night within the Citadel for protection against raids. In 1551, Ottoman attackers overcame the older defences and enslaved much of the island’s population.
Why it still matters.
The southern defences were rebuilt under the Knights between 1599 and 1603. Look at the fortress as a changing response to danger: the impressive skyline carries a difficult history of civilian survival.
FACT OR MYTH? 🤔Every part of Cittadella was built at the same time.Tap to reveal ↓
Myth. The complex contains structures and alterations from different historical periods.
🧠 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.
