When the Knights arrived in Malta in 1530, there were very few defences along the shores of the islands. After the victory of the Great Siege the Knights made sure to defend Malta better, and their efforts were rewarded with an uninterrupted period of security. Fort Manoel was one of the best forts that the Order built.

Erected through the generosity of Grand Master Antonio Manoel de Vilhena, it provided security to the Marsamxett side of Valletta. It also provided security to the Lazzaretto, the quarantine hospital that the Order had on the island. The Fort remained in use throughout the British period, and it was only after the end of World War Two that it was returned to the local government.

FAA is organising a visit to this fort providing an opportunity to view the restoration that has taken place, here the stories of the fort and the island, and admire the views of Valletta from the other side.

Date: 26 November

Meeting place: Near entrance to Fort Manoel

Meeting time: 10am

Reserve at: ticketengine.faa.org.mt