Set the scene.
Sinan Rais attacked Malta in 1526. The event appears in archival research covering the years immediately before the Order’s arrival.
Here’s the twist.
Insecurity drove villagers to take up residence in fortified Mdina. Defence influenced ordinary decisions about where to live.
Why it still matters.
Imagine choosing a home with a city wall in mind. This chapter helps explain why medieval records discuss coastal watches, weapons and security so often.
🧠 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.