St Anthony's Battery, Artillery battery in Qala, Malta
St Anthony's Battery sits on a semi-hexagonal platform with thick walls and musketry loopholes at the easternmost point of Gozo island. The complex includes two reconstructed blockhouses and a gateway, with restoration work continuing to maintain the site's structural integrity.
The Order of Saint John built this defensive fortification between 1731 and 1732 to guard the channel between Gozo and Comino islands. The structure was part of a broader network designed to protect Maltese waters from maritime threats.
The entrance displays a carved coat of arms belonging to Grandmaster António Manoel de Vilhena, representing the military power of the Order of Saint John. Visitors can observe how the order's authority was expressed through heraldic symbols and architectural choices.
The site sits at a windy headland with far-reaching views, so sturdy footwear and weather-resistant clothing are recommended for a comfortable visit. The terrain is uneven and requires careful walking, particularly after rain.
The fortification was equipped with mobile cannons that could be repositioned based on tactical needs, making it flexible in its defense strategy. This adaptability allowed the garrison to respond quickly to different maritime threats.
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