OKAY, HERE’S THE STORY

Set the scene.

The Knights began Fort Manoel in 1723. Its position on the island in Marsamxett helped prevent enemy artillery from threatening Valletta’s north-facing bastions.

Here’s the twist.

The fort suffered direct hits during the Second World War and later deterioration. Restoration work began in 2001.

Why it still matters.

Before repairing stone, conservators recorded the buildings photographically and mapped damage. A restoration starts with understanding what happened, not simply making a place look new.

🧠 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.