Fort Saint Elmo, Star fort in Valletta, Malta
Fort Saint Elmo sits at the tip of Sciberras Peninsula between two harbors, showing thick stone walls arranged in a star shape. The interior opens onto a large parade ground surrounded by barracks and artillery positions facing the coast.
During the Great Siege of 1565, Ottoman troops attacked the fortress for nearly a month with heavy bombardment. The site was expanded after the siege, with new bastions reinforcing the original design.
The fortress houses a collection of military objects showing how weapons and equipment changed over centuries. Visitors see uniforms and cannons that once defended the island.
Guided tours show the parade ground, barrack rooms, and defensive positions along the walls. The waterfront location means wind and sun hit directly, so comfortable clothing helps.
Two separate building phases stand visible: the older Vendome Bastion from 1614 and the later Carafa Enceinte from 1687. These layers show how engineers adapted defenses over decades.
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